Functions of Hair Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What are the functions of hair? (Select all that apply)

Sensory Reception (correct)

Heat Retention (correct)

Facial Expression (correct)

Visual Identification (correct)

Chemical Signal Dispersal (correct)

Protection (correct)

What does the hair help protect? (Select all that apply)

Cushion the head and protect the scalp (correct)

Eyebrows and eyelashes protect the eyes (correct)

Nose and ear hairs keep insects from entering (correct)

What is chemical signal dispersal?

Hairs help disperse pheromones that are detected by the vomeronasal organ in the nose.

Hair color is determined by what?

The type and amount of pigment (melanin) produced in the stratum basale cells at the base of the hair follicle. Signup and view all the answers

The more melanin in hair, what happens to its color?

The darker the hair. Signup and view all the answers

What pigment is responsible for red hair?

A special iron-based pigment. Signup and view all the answers

What causes gray hair?

The gradual reduction of melanin production within the hair follicle. Signup and view all the answers

What occurs with white hair?

It occurs due to lack of pigment entirely. Signup and view all the answers

Hair loss can be caused by which of the following? (Select all that apply)

Changes in hormonal levels Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Functions of Hair

Hair serves multiple purposes, including protection, heat retention, facial expression, sensory reception, visual identification, and dispersing chemical signals.

Protection

Hair cushions the head and safeguards the scalp from environmental elements.
Nose and ear hairs block insects and other foreign particles from entering the body.
Eyebrows and eyelashes shield the eyes from debris and sweat.

Chemical Signal Dispersal

Hair aids in the distribution of pheromones, which are detected by the vomeronasal organ in the nose, playing a role in social and reproductive behaviors.

Hair Color Determination

Hair color is influenced by the type and quantity of melanin produced in the stratum basale cells located at the hair follicle's base.

Melanin Production and Hair Color

Increased melanin results in darker hair, with the spectrum ranging from blond to black.
A unique iron-based pigment is responsible for the coloration of red hair.

Aging and Hair Color Changes

Gray hair emerges from a progressive decrease in melanin production in hair follicles.
Complete absence of pigment leads to the formation of white hair.

Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss can stem from various factors, including dietary deficiencies, high fever, exposure to radiation, certain medications, aging, genetic predisposition, and hormonal fluctuations.

Description

Explore the various functions of hair through these flashcards. Learn about its roles in protection, sensory reception, and visual identification. Test your knowledge on how hair contributes to facial expression and chemical signaling.