Final answer:
The abnormally high temperature in the body's second line of defense is to kill pathogens and enhance phagocytosis. It is a part of the immune response that helps in fighting off infections more effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of an abnormally high temperature in the body's second line of defense is primarily to kill pathogens. Fever, as part of the immune response, creates an environment that is less favorable for the survival and proliferation of pathogens. Elevated body temperature can slow down or stop the growth of certain bacteria and viruses. Additionally, fever can enhance phagocytosis, as immune cells such as phagocytes work more efficiently at higher temperatures. This heightened immune activity helps the body to more effectively fight off infections.
Stimulating antibody production and creating a barrier for pathogens are not directly related to the increase in temperature. Therefore, these are not the primary reasons for a fever during an immune response. In summary, the heightened temperature assists in the overall efficacy of the immune response against invading pathogens, making it a critical aspect of our body's ability to defend itself.
Abnormally high temperatures during a fever primarily serve to kill pathogens and enhance the immune system's efficiency, particularly phagocytosis.