What carries dissolved waste products from the body, helps digest food, and carries nutrients throughout the body?
A) fat
B) minerals
C) vitamins
D) water
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D) water.
Explanation:
Water plays an essential role in maintaining bodily functions and overall health. It is a vital component of many physiological processes, including the transport of dissolved waste products, the digestion of food, and the distribution of nutrients throughout the body.
- Transport of Waste Products: Water serves as the primary solvent in the bloodstream, facilitating the dissolution and transport of waste products generated from cellular metabolism. These waste products, such as urea, creatinine, and various toxins, are carried in the blood to the kidneys, where they are filtered out and excreted as urine. This process is crucial for maintaining homeostasis and preventing the accumulation of harmful substances in the body.
- Digestion of Food: Water is integral to the digestive process. It is involved in the formation of saliva, which begins the breakdown of food in the mouth. Additionally, water aids in the enzymatic reactions that occur in the stomach and small intestine, helping to dissolve nutrients and make them accessible for absorption. It also assists in the transport of digested food through the gastrointestinal tract.
- Nutrient Distribution: After digestion, water is essential for the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream. Nutrients such as glucose, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals are dissolved in water, allowing them to be efficiently transported to cells throughout the body. This distribution is vital for cellular functions, energy production, and overall health.
- Regulation of Body Temperature: Water also helps regulate body temperature through the process of sweating and respiration. When the body temperature rises, sweat glands release water, which evaporates and cools the body, thus preventing overheating.
In summary, water is indispensable for transporting waste products, aiding digestion, and distributing nutrients throughout the body, highlighting its critical role in maintaining health and physiological balance.