Question

concept covered: nails and hair

1. what is the purpose of the nails?
2. where does the nail form?
3. nails are primarily composed of what substance?
4. how fast do nails grow?
5. what is the function of hair?
6. what are hair follicles?

Explanation:

1. Nails protect the tips of fingers and toes.
2. Nails form at the nail matrix, a part under the cuticle.
3. Nails are primarily composed of keratin, a tough - fibrous protein.
4. Fingernails grow about 3.5 mm per month and toenails about 1.6 mm per month.
5. Hair functions include protection (e.g., on the scalp from UV), insulation, and sensing.
6. Hair follicles are small sacs in the skin from which hair grows.

Answer:

1. Protect the tips of fingers and toes.
2. At the nail matrix under the cuticle.
3. Keratin.
4. Fingernails: about 3.5 mm per month; Toenails: about 1.6 mm per month.
5. Protection, insulation, sensing.
6. Small sacs in the skin from which hair grows.