What are the roles of the skin, hair, and nails?

• A. They protect the body, regulate temperature, and provide sensory information.
• B. They digest nutrients.
• C. They store minerals.
• D. They produce hormones.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that skin, hair, and nails work together to protect the body, help regulate temperature, and provide sensory information. The skin is a protective barrier against pathogens and dehydration, and it uses sweat glands and blood vessels to cool or warm the body. It also has sensory receptors that detect touch, pressure, temperature, and pain. Hair adds protection and insulation, shields the skin from sun, and its follicles contribute to sensing movement and irritation. Nails protect the fingertips and toes and assist with fine motor tasks by providing a hard surface for leverage and picking up small objects. These roles collectively support both defense and interaction with the environment. The other options describe functions like digesting nutrients, storing minerals, or producing hormones, which are not functions of skin, hair, or nails.