Barber Practice State Board Practice Exam

Which function of the skin is primarily associated with the sense of touch?

1. Excretion

2. Secretion

3. Absorption

4. Sensation

The correct answer is: Sensation

The primary function of the skin associated with the sense of touch is sensation. The skin is embedded with an array of nerve endings and receptors that are sensitive to different stimuli such as pressure, temperature, and pain, allowing individuals to perceive tactile sensations. These sensory receptors provide crucial feedback about the external environment, which is essential for both protective responses and interaction with surroundings. Understanding the sensation function emphasizes the skin's role in delivering important information to the brain, enabling individuals to respond to potential threats or pleasurable experiences. The other functions, while important in their own right, do not directly relate to the sense of touch. Excretion pertains to the removal of waste products, secretion involves the production and release of substances like sweat and oils, and absorption refers to the skin's ability to take in certain substances. Each of these functions contributes to overall skin health and homeostasis but does not primarily govern the tactile experience.