Hey there! If you have a human body, here’s a cool tip for you. When something comes out of your body regularly, like boogers, there’s usually a good reason for it. Let’s dive into what boogers are and why they form.
Every time you breathe in, you’re not just taking in air. You’re also inhaling tiny particles like dust, dirt, pollen, smoke, and germs. These things can make you sick if they get into your body. Luckily, your body has a special way to trap them before they cause any harm.
Your body uses mucus, the slimy stuff in your nose, to catch these tiny particles. Mucus is part of your respiratory system, which helps you breathe and get oxygen. Even when you’re not sick, your body makes mucus to keep your respiratory system moist and healthy.
Mucus is sticky, so as air passes through your nose, it traps the dust, germs, and other particles. Little hairs called cilia in your nose and lungs help move the mucus to your throat, where you swallow it. Your stomach then destroys the germs, keeping you safe from sickness.
Sometimes, the air you breathe is dry, which makes the mucus in your nose dry and crusty, like mud drying out. This dried-up mucus, along with trapped dirt, forms boogers. The color of boogers can change depending on what’s in them. For example, tiny bits of blood can make them brown, while certain cells fighting germs can make them green or pink.
Even though boogers are full of germs, they help keep harmful stuff out of your body. So, it’s important to blow your nose into a tissue instead of picking it. Afterward, wash your hands well to prevent spreading germs. Remember, good manners are also good science!
Thanks for learning with us on SciShow Kids! If you have questions about how your body works, ask an adult to help you leave a comment or email us at [email protected]. See you next time!
Booger Observation Journal: Start a “Booger Observation Journal” where you can draw or write about what you notice about your boogers each day. Do they change color or size? What do you think might cause these changes? Remember, it’s important to wash your hands after touching your nose!
Dust and Dirt Detector: Go on a “Dust and Dirt Hunt” around your home or classroom. Use a magnifying glass to look for tiny particles on surfaces like tables, windowsills, or shelves. Imagine how these particles might get into your nose and how mucus helps trap them. Share your findings with a friend or family member.
Experiment with Mucus: Create your own “mucus” using a mixture of water, cornstarch, and a little green food coloring. Feel how sticky it is! Try blowing air through it with a straw to see how it catches particles like dust or glitter. Discuss how this is similar to how real mucus works in your nose.
