Which two body systems primarily interact to cause gains in body size and skeletal growth at puberty?

The correct answer highlights the significant role of the nervous system and the endocrine system in facilitating growth and development during puberty.

The endocrine system is responsible for the production and regulation of hormones, which play a vital role in various bodily functions including growth and metabolism. During puberty, hormones such as growth hormone, testosterone, and estrogen are released in increased amounts, leading to physical changes including increased muscle mass, bone density, and overall body size.

Simultaneously, the nervous system coordinates the physiological processes and responses to environmental stimuli. It interacts with the endocrine system to ensure that hormonal signals are properly conveyed and appropriately responded to by the body. This communication is essential for enabling growth processes to occur smoothly and efficiently.

In contrast, the other options do not address the primary systems involved in growth during puberty. The nervous system and digestive system do interact, but the digestive system primarily focuses on nutrient absorption rather than growth regulation. The respiratory system’s main function is gas exchange and does not directly influence body growth or skeletal development. Similarly, while the muscular system is important for overall physical development, it does not directly interact with growth regulation in the same manner as the endocrine system does during puberty.