8 Questions
What is the term 'skin' technically referring to?
Body covering of vertebrates only
What is the primary function of the skin in protecting the body?
Protecting the body from injury and harmful substances
What is the approximate weight of the skin of an average adult male?
4.5 to 5 kg
What is the thickness of the skin on areas of the body that regularly rub against objects?
Thickest, at around 4.0 to 5.0 mm
What is the outer layer of the skin?
Epidermis
What is the function of the basement membrane?
To anchor the epidermis and dermis together
What is the skin's ability to repair itself after injury?
Remarkable
What is the skin's role in sensing the environment?
It senses through the sense of touch
Study Notes
Skin Basics
- Skin refers to the body covering of vertebrates, including fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
- Human skin is essential for survival, forming a barrier against harmful microorganisms and chemicals, preventing loss of body fluids, and protecting vital structures from injury and UV rays.
Skin Functions
- Regulates body temperature
- Excretes some waste products
- Acts as an important sensory organ, containing specialized nerve cells responsible for the sense of touch
Skin Structure and Size
- The skin is the body's largest organ, weighing 4.5-5 kg (10-11 lb) and covering 2 sq m (22 sq ft) in area
- Skin thickness varies from 1.4-4.0 mm (0.06-0.16 in), with the thickest areas on the palms and soles of the feet
- Composed of two layers: the epidermis (outer layer) and the dermis (inner layer)
Epidermis and Dermis
- Epidermis: a tough, waterproof, protective layer
- Dermis: thicker than the epidermis, providing strength and elasticity to the skin
Skin Layers and Connections
- The epidermis and dermis are anchored by the basement membrane, a thin layer of tissue composed of interconnected molecules acting as ropes and grappling hooks
- Below the dermis lies the subcutaneous layer, composed of protein fibers and adipose tissue (fat), containing glands and sensory receptors involved in the sense of touch.
Learn about the structure and functions of human skin, including its role in protecting the body and regulating body temperature.
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