Question

Without melanocytes, skin would a. be too thin. b. lack nerves. c. not tan. d. not be waterproof.

Short answer

c. not tan.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding melanocytes

Melanocytes are cells found in the basal layer of the skin, and they are responsible for producing melanin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of our skin, hair, and eyes. The primary function of melanocytes is to protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation by producing melanin.

Eliminate options not related to melanocytes function

Based on the understanding of melanocytes function, let's eliminate the options that are not related to them: a. Skin thickness: Skin thickness is determined by the different layers present in the skin and is not related to melanocytes' function. So, this option can be eliminated. b. Nerves in skin: The function of melanocytes is unrelated to the nerves found in the skin, so this option can also be eliminated. d. Waterproof skin: Skin waterproofing is primarily due to the presence of lipids (fats) in the outermost layer of the skin called the stratum corneum. Melanocytes are not responsible for these lipids, so this option can be eliminated.

Select the correct option

By eliminating the unrelated options, we are left with the correct option: c. Not tan. The tanning of the skin is caused by an increase in the production of melanin by melanocytes due to exposure to UV radiation. Without melanocytes, the skin would not be able to produce melanin and therefore would not tan when exposed to sunlight.