Human Defences: Physical barriers Flashcards

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What is a physical barrier in the human body?

A body part or action that blocks or removes pathogens.

How does the skin stop pathogens entering?

The outer dead layer forms a tough wall that keeps pathogens out.

Why is forming a scab after a cut helpful?

It seals the wound and stops pathogens entering.

What do platelets do to help form this barrier?

They start clotting and make a solid plug that becomes a scab.

What is mucus and what does it do?

It is a sticky fluid made by the airways that traps dust and pathogens.

Where are cilia found and what is their job?

In the trachea and bronchi; tiny hairs that sweep mucus towards the throat.

How do nose hairs help prevent infection?

They trap large particles and pathogens in the nose.

How do mucus and cilia work together to protect the lungs?

Mucus traps pathogens and cilia move it out of the airways.

How do eyelashes and blinking protect the eyes?

Eyelashes block dust and pathogens, and blinking sweeps them away.

How does shedding of skin cells help protect you?

Old skin cells fall off and take pathogens with them.

How do coughing and sneezing help protect the lungs?

They force out mucus and trapped pathogens from the airways.