Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

5. Integumentary System

Hair

Anatomy & Physiology

5. Integumentary System

Hair

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2:02 minutes

Problem 8

Textbook Question

An arrector pili muscle
a. Is associated with each sweat gland
b. Can cause a hair to stand up straight
c. Enables each hair to be stretched when wet
d. Provides new cells for continued growth of its associated hair

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the anatomy of the arrector pili muscle: The arrector pili is a small, smooth muscle attached to hair follicles in the dermis layer of the skin. It is responsible for certain physiological functions related to hair movement.

Review the function of the arrector pili muscle: Its primary role is to contract in response to stimuli such as cold or fear, causing the hair to stand upright (a phenomenon known as piloerection or 'goosebumps').

Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each option based on the known functions and associations of the arrector pili muscle. For example, it is not directly associated with sweat glands, nor does it provide new cells for hair growth.

Focus on the correct association: The arrector pili muscle is specifically involved in causing hair to stand up straight when it contracts, which is a key physiological response.

Conclude the reasoning: Based on the anatomy and function of the arrector pili muscle, identify the option that accurately describes its role in the body.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Arrector Pili Muscle Function

The arrector pili muscle is a small, smooth muscle attached to hair follicles. Its primary function is to contract in response to cold or emotional stimuli, causing the hair to stand upright, a phenomenon known as piloerection. This reaction can help with insulation and is often associated with the 'goosebumps' effect.

Hair Follicle Anatomy

Hair follicles are complex structures in the skin that produce hair. Each follicle is surrounded by various types of cells, including those that support hair growth and those that form the arrector pili muscle. Understanding the anatomy of hair follicles is essential for comprehending how the arrector pili muscle interacts with hair.

Sweat Glands and Their Association

Sweat glands are exocrine glands that help regulate body temperature through perspiration. While they are located in the skin, they are not directly associated with the arrector pili muscle. Recognizing the distinction between these structures is important for accurately answering questions about their functions and relationships.