Question

How do the following actions influence blocking germs?
(a) Rise in body temperature.
(b) Low oil content on skin.
(c) Swelling occurs near wound.
(d) Lymphocytes produce Antibodies.

Answer 1

a) Rise in body temperature -

Pathogenic bacteria thrive at normal body temperature. A bacterial infection result in pyrexia which is a rise in temperature that prevents bacterial growth.

(b) Low oil content on the skin -

Sebum is the oily substance released by the sebaceous glands on the dermis of the skin. They provide skin lubrication and have an antimicrobial effect. Hence low oil content on skin increases bacterial growth.

(c) Swelling occurs near wound -

The process of swelling at the site of the wound is called inflammation. It is characterised by redness, warmth and pain. When there are a wound, white blood cells, hormones such as prostaglandins migrate to that site. The antigen is destroyed resulting in accumulation of cell debris and pus.

(d) Lymphocytes produce antibodies -

Antibodies are produced by binding of the B lymphocytes to antigen. The B lymphocytes produce B cells called plasma cells that further produce antibodies. Antibodies react with antigens(agglutination) and destroy them.