What is a primary function of the integumentary system?

What is a primary function of the integumentary system?

• A. Protection, body temperature regulation, vitamin D synthesis
• B. Filtration of waste
• C. Gas exchange
• D. Hormone production

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that the integumentary system protects the body, helps control temperature, and can synthesize vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. The skin acts as a strong shield against injury and disease, while sweat glands and blood vessels help regulate heat by cooling the body or conserving heat as needed. Vitamin D synthesis starts in the skin with UV light converting a cholesterol precursor into a form that is later activated by the liver and kidneys to support calcium absorption and bone health. Other options describe roles handled by different systems: filtering waste by the kidneys and liver, gas exchange by the lungs, and hormone production by endocrine glands.

The main idea is that the integumentary system protects the body, helps control temperature, and can synthesize vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. The skin acts as a strong shield against injury and disease, while sweat glands and blood vessels help regulate heat by cooling the body or conserving heat as needed. Vitamin D synthesis starts in the skin with UV light converting a cholesterol precursor into a form that is later activated by the liver and kidneys to support calcium absorption and bone health. Other options describe roles handled by different systems: filtering waste by the kidneys and liver, gas exchange by the lungs, and hormone production by endocrine glands.