Difference Between Excretion and Secretion

this question came up in discussion/conversation earlier today (probably in ref to breast milk)

Excretion vs Secretion

In body processes, we may encounter words that are quite similar in definition. We may often use these interchangeably. Not until we know the definitions, will we be able to use these words correctly. In this article, we shall tackle two of the common words that are used interchangeably.

Two of these words that we commonly exchange in usage are “excretion” and “secretion.” Let us examine the differences.

“Secretion” and “excretion” are the same in nature since both are involved in the passage or movement of materials. These words and body processes are needed in order to control and maintain homeostasis in the body. Both processes move and eliminate unwanted components in the body.

To further elaborate on these two processes, let us define both. “Excretion” is the removal of material from a living thing while “secretion” is the movement of material from one point to another. So, to think of it, secretion is active while excretion is passive in nature. For an example of excretion, humans excrete such materials as tears, feces, urine, carbon dioxide, and sweat while secretion, on the other hand, includes enzymes, hormones, or saliva. So, as we can see, excretion is mostly body wastes while secretion is important materials that can be metabolized and used by our bodies.

Regarding the organs that use secretion and excretion, both can also differ. Examples of organs of excretion are the rectum for feces, lungs for carbon dioxide, tear ducts for tears, and skin for sweat. Secretion, on the other hand, involves organs and body parts responsible for the secretion of important substances such as digestive glands: salivary glands, pancreas, liver, gallbladder. Endocrine glands: pituitary glands, thyroid glands, ovaries, testes which secrete hormones that are important for metabolism and bodily functions.

After knowing the major and minor differences of “excretion” and “secretion,” we can conclude that these words are have so many differences that we will be able to use them correctly and precisely in the near future.

Summary:

1. “Secretion” and “excretion” are the same in nature since both are involved in the passage or movement of materials.
2. “Excretion” is the removal of material from a living thing while “secretion” is the movement of material from one point to another.
3. Excretion is mostly body wastes while secretion is important materials that can be metabolized and used by our bodies.

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