Which body system controls the body's ability to respond to its environment?

• A. Digestive system
• B. Nervous system
• C. Respiratory system
• D. Skeletal system

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the primary functions of each body system listed in the problem. For example, the digestive system processes food and absorbs nutrients, the respiratory system facilitates gas exchange, the skeletal system provides structural support, and the nervous system controls communication and coordination within the body.
2. Step 2: Focus on the key phrase in the question: 'controls the body's ability to respond to its environment.' This indicates the system responsible for sensing changes and initiating appropriate responses.
3. Step 3: Recall that the nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, which work together to detect stimuli (e.g., temperature, pain, light) and send signals to muscles or glands to respond.
4. Step 4: Compare the functions of the nervous system to the other systems listed. While the digestive, respiratory, and skeletal systems are essential for survival, they do not directly control responses to environmental changes.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the nervous system is the correct answer because it is specifically designed to process information from the environment and coordinate the body's responses.