Question

Match the lymphatic organs in the key to the description of its location. a. lymph nodes b. Peyer's patches c. spleen d. thymus gland e. tonsils. Occur along lymphatic vessels

Short answer

The correct answer is (a) lymph nodes, as they occur along the lymphatic vessels.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the lymphatic system

The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system and comprises a network of conduits, called lymphatic vessels that transport a clear fluid called lymph. The main function of the lymphatic system is to transport lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells that help in defending the body against infections and diseases. Now, let's identify and locate each of the lymphatic organs listed in the exercise:

Locate lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs located along the lymphatic vessels. They store lymph and white blood cells, helping the body fight infections. The answer for this is (a).

Locate Peyer's patches

Peyer's patches are small masses of lymphatic tissue found throughout the ileum region of the small intestine. They are important for immune surveillance of the digestive tract. The answer for this is (b).

Locate spleen

The spleen is a soft, spongy organ situated in the upper left part of the abdomen. While it is not along lymphatic vessels like the other organs in this list, it is an important part of the lymphatic system. The spleen filters blood and helps to destroy old or damaged red blood cells, stores and releases white blood cells, and recycles iron from hemoglobin. The answer for this is (c).

Locate thymus gland

The thymus gland is a small organ located behind the sternum and between the lungs. The main function of the thymus gland is to produce and mature T-lymphocytes (T-cells), a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections. The answer for this is (d).

Locate tonsils

Tonsils are immune system organs made up of lymphatic tissue. They are located at the back of the throat and help in trapping pathogens entering the body through the nose and mouth. The answer for this is (e).