Question

Creating E-Skin
This activity will help you meet these educational goals:

You will read pair scientific information from a written text with information in media and visual displays to clarify claims and findings.
You will analyze the author’s purpose in writing a text.
You will determine the meanings of symbols and key terms in a science text.
Directions
Read the instructions for this self-checked activity. Type in your response to each question, and check your answers. At the end of the activity, write a brief evaluation of your work.
Activity
Read this article about a new simulated skin, and then answer the following questions.

Part A
What was the author’s purpose in using the phrase “bridge electronics with biology”?















Space used (includes formatting): 0 / 30000
Part B
Based on the information in the article, do you think the human body has one type of sensory receptor or several types of sensory receptors? Explain your answer using information from the article.















Space used (includes formatting): 0 / 30000
Part C
What are the advantages of nerve-to-cell e-skin for people with prosthetic limbs?















Space used (includes formatting): 0 / 30000
Part D
Why did the author think e-skin could make better hearing aids? In your answer, explain how the ears connect to the nervous system.















Space used (includes formatting): 0 / 30000
Self-Evaluation
How did you do? Rate your work on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 as the highest score. Then write a brief evaluation of your work below. Note what you learned and what challenged you.















Space used (includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Answer 1

### Part A
The author’s purpose in using the phrase “bridge electronics with biology” was to convey the idea of integration between two distinct fields: technology and biological systems. This phrase highlights the innovative concept of creating devices that mimic natural biological functions, allowing for advancements in medical technology, including prosthetics and sensory devices. It suggests a harmonious relationship where electronic systems enhance biological functionalities, ultimately benefiting those who require medical assistance or enhanced bodily functions.

### Part B
Based on the information in the article, I believe the human body has several types of sensory receptors. The article discusses various sensory functions, such as touch, temperature, and pain, indicating that different receptors are responsible for these sensations. Each type of sensory receptor is specialized to detect specific stimuli, which supports the notion that there are multiple receptor types working in tandem to provide a comprehensive sensory experience.

### Part C
The advantages of nerve-to-cell e-skin for people with prosthetic limbs include improved sensory feedback, allowing users to feel sensations such as pressure and temperature. This technology can significantly enhance the user experience by providing a more natural and intuitive interaction with their environment. Additionally, e-skin can help users control their prosthetics more effectively, leading to greater comfort and functionality in daily activities.

### Part D
The author thought e-skin could make better hearing aids because it would allow for more natural sound perception and a seamless connection to the nervous system. E-skin can replicate the way our natural ears function, with enhanced sensitivity and specificity in detecting sound frequencies. The ears connect to the nervous system through auditory nerves, which transmit sound signals to the brain for interpretation. By creating hearing aids that mimic this process, e-skin can improve sound quality and make hearing aids more effective at filtering and amplifying sounds based on the user’s needs.

### Self-Evaluation
I would rate my work a 5. I was able to effectively answer all parts of the activity using information derived from the article. I learned about the complexities of sensory receptors and the remarkable innovation of e-skin technology. The challenge I encountered was ensuring that my explanations were clear and concise while conveying all necessary information, but I feel I managed to articulate my understanding well. This activity deepened my appreciation for the intersection of technology and biology in enhancing human capabilities.