Integumentary System Worksheet

Which of the following is NOT a function of the integument?

• Prevents desiccation (drying out)

• Produces red blood cells

• Synthesis of vitamin D

• Excretes water, salt, and organic wastes

Answer explanation

The integument, or skin, serves various functions such as preventing desiccation, synthesizing vitamin D, and excreting waste. However, it does not produce red blood cells; that function is performed by the bone marrow.

How does the integument help maintain homeostasis in an organism?

• By producing digestive enzymes

• By maintaining normal temperature and preventing water loss

• By increasing bone density

• By producing hormones for growth

Answer explanation

The integument helps maintain homeostasis by regulating body temperature through sweat and insulation, and by preventing water loss, which is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the organism.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-3

Which layer of the integument is primarily composed of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium and forms the outer waterproof shield?

• Epidermis

• Dermis

• Subcutaneous layer

• Adipose tissue

Answer explanation

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the integument, primarily composed of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, providing a waterproof barrier that protects underlying tissues.

What is the main function of the subcutaneous layer (hypodermis) in the integumentary system?

• Provides insulation and acts as a shock absorber

• Forms the outer waterproof shield

• Produces melanin

• Contains sweat glands

Answer explanation

The subcutaneous layer, or hypodermis, primarily provides insulation to maintain body temperature and acts as a shock absorber to protect underlying tissues, making it the correct choice.

Which statement best describes the dermis layer of the integument?

• It is tough, leathery, and primarily composed of dense connective tissue.

• It is made of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.

• It is found above the epidermis.

• It is composed mainly of adipose tissue.

Answer explanation

The dermis is the layer beneath the epidermis, characterized by its toughness and leathery texture due to dense connective tissue, making it the correct choice. The other options describe different layers or tissues.

Which type of cell in the epidermis is responsible for giving the skin its tough, waterproof outer protection?

• Keratinocytes

• Melanocytes

• Langerhans cells

• Merkel cells

Answer explanation

Keratinocytes are the primary cells in the epidermis that produce keratin, a protein that provides tough, waterproof protection to the skin, making them essential for the skin's barrier function.

What is the primary function of melanocytes in the skin?

• Gives the skin its color

• Provides immune defense

• Acts as a nervous cell

• Forms the outer waterproof layer

Answer explanation

Melanocytes are specialized cells in the skin that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for giving the skin its color. This is their primary function, distinguishing them from other skin cells that serve different roles.

Which cells in the epidermis are specific immune cells?

• Langerhans cells

• Keratinocytes

• Merkel cells

• Melanocytes

Answer explanation

Langerhans cells are specialized immune cells in the epidermis that play a crucial role in the skin's immune response. They detect pathogens and help activate the immune system, unlike keratinocytes, Merkel cells, and melanocytes.

Which of the following best describes the role of Merkel cells in the epidermis?

• Specific nervous cell to the skin

• Provides pigment to the skin

• Forms the waterproof barrier

• Acts as an immune cell

Answer explanation

Merkel cells are specialized cells in the epidermis that function as mechanoreceptors, providing sensory information about touch. They are not involved in pigmentation, waterproofing, or immune responses.

Explain how keratinization contributes to the protective function of the skin. Use evidence from the characteristics of keratinocytes described.

• Keratinization involves deep, younger, “live” cells pushing outward, becoming superficial, older, “lifeless” cells that form a protective layer and gradually slough off, maintaining the skin’s tough, waterproof barrier.

• Keratinization allows the skin to produce melanin, giving it color.

• Keratinization is the process by which immune cells attack pathogens.

• Keratinization is responsible for nerve signal transmission in the skin.

Answer explanation

Keratinization is crucial as it transforms live keratinocytes into dead, tough cells that form a protective, waterproof barrier on the skin, preventing water loss and protecting against environmental damage.