Unit 4: The circulatory and excretory systems                        1   2   3   4

4.1. The sweat glands

Sweat glands produce a secretion called sweat, which contains urea, uric acid, ions

and water. They are distributed all over the skin.

Sweat is a liquid secretion very similar to urine, but it has more water and less waste products.

The main function of sweat is to keep the body temperature. When it is too high, the sweat glands produce sweat. Sweat, which is very rich in water, evaporates reducing the temperature of the body.

Other secondary functions of sweat are:

- To excrete waste products (urea and uric acid)

- To play a role in sexual attraction.