Question

6.5 skin color (p. 188 - 190) what determines the color of the skin? explain how a tan works: skin cells play an important role in the production of what essential vitamin? (p. 197)

Explanation:

Melanin determines the color of the skin. Melanin is a pigment produced by melanocytes in the skin. More melanin leads to darker - colored skin. A tan occurs when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays stimulate melanocytes to produce more melanin as a protective mechanism. Skin cells play an important role in vitamin D production. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, a cholesterol - like molecule in skin cells is converted into vitamin D3.

Answer:

1. Melanin determines the color of the skin.
2. When the skin is exposed to UV radiation, melanocytes produce more melanin to cause a tan as a protective response.
3. Skin cells are involved in vitamin D production as they convert a cholesterol - like molecule into vitamin D3 upon sunlight exposure.