Skin

What is the largest organ of the human body?

Hint: It covers your entire body and can weigh about 8 pounds in an adult.

What are the three main layers of the skin from outermost to innermost?

Hint: 'Epi' means on top of, 'derm' means skin, and 'hypo' means below.

Which layer of skin is the outermost layer that you can see and touch?

Hint: It is made up mostly of dead skin cells that are constantly being shed and replaced.

What pigment gives skin its color and helps protect against UV radiation?

Hint: People with more of this pigment have darker skin.

Which layer of skin contains blood vessels, nerve endings, sweat glands, and hair follicles?

Hint: It is the middle layer, thicker than the outer layer.

What is the function of sweat glands?

Hint: When you exercise or feel hot, these glands become very active.

What are pores?

Hint: You can sometimes see them on your nose if you look closely in a mirror.

What is the deepest layer of skin that contains fat for insulation and cushioning?

Hint: 'Hypo' means under or below.

What structure in the dermis produces hair?

Hint: Each strand of hair grows from one of these tube-shaped structures.

What tough protein makes up the outer dead cells of the epidermis and also forms hair and nails?

Hint: It makes these structures strong and waterproof.

Name two important functions of the skin.

Hint: The skin acts as a barrier and also helps you stay at the right temperature.