What is a function of the integumentary system
A. absorbs water
B. breaks down chemical bonds in food
C. forms blood clots
D. grows new tissue
A. absorbs water
The function of the integumentary system is to absorb water, protect internal tissues and organs, regulate body temperature, and produce vitamin D. It also serves as a barrier against the entry of pathogens and harmful substances, and it plays a role in the sensation of touch, pressure, and pain. Therefore, the correct answer is A - absorbs water.
The integumentary system is responsible for protecting the body from external threats and maintaining homeostasis. It consists of the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands. Out of the given options, the correct answer for the function of the integumentary system is A. absorbs water.
To arrive at this answer, we can eliminate the other options one by one:
B. The breakdown of chemical bonds in food occurs in the digestive system, primarily in the stomach and small intestine. The integumentary system is not involved in this process.
C. The formation of blood clots is a function of the circulatory system, specifically the platelets and clotting factors within the blood. The integumentary system is not directly involved in this process.
D. The growth of new tissue is primarily governed by the process of cell division and tissue regeneration, which is regulated by the various organs and systems in the body such as the endocrine and musculoskeletal systems. While the integumentary system can heal itself to some extent, it does not actively grow new tissue on its own.
This leaves us with option A as the correct answer. The integumentary system plays a role in absorbing water through the skin. The outermost layer of the skin, called the epidermis, acts as a barrier to prevent excessive water loss from the body and also absorbs water to keep the skin hydrated. Additionally, sweat glands in the skin produce sweat, which helps regulate body temperature by cooling the skin through evaporation.