Human Biology, 14 Edition

Published by McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 10: 1-25924-574-8
ISBN 13: 978-1-25924-574-9

Chapter 4 - Section 4.6 - Integumentary System - Check Your Progress - Page 81: 2

Answer

Skin cells produce keratin, which causes the cells to become flat and hard as they are pushed to the surface. This allows skin to be waterproof, which limits the amount of water that can be lost or gained through the skin and which maintains homeostasis. Langerhans cells are white blood cells that phagocytize infectious agents in the skin and travel to lymphatic organs, which keeps the skin free of toxins. Melanocytes produce melanin, which causes the skin to become darker in response to too much sun. This helps to limit the effects of ultraviolet rays and helps to keep skin healthy.

Work Step by Step

Skin cells produce keratin, which causes the cells to become flat and hard as they are pushed to the surface. This allows skin to be waterproof, which limits the amount of water that can be lost or gained through the skin and which maintains homeostasis. Langerhans cells are white blood cells that phagocytize infectious agents in the skin and travel to lymphatic organs, which keeps the skin free of toxins. Melanocytes produce melanin, which causes the skin to become darker in response to too much sun. This helps to limit the effects of ultraviolet rays and helps to keep skin healthy.
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