Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

5. Integumentary System

Hair

Anatomy & Physiology

5. Integumentary System

Hair

Previous problemNext problem

1:24 minutes

Problem 9

Textbook Question

The portion of the hair follicle where cell divisions occur is the
(a) Shaft
(b) Matrix
(c) Root hair plexus
(d) Cuticle

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the structure of the hair follicle: The hair follicle is a complex structure that includes several parts such as the shaft, matrix, root hair plexus, and cuticle. Each part has a specific function.

Learn the role of the matrix: The matrix is the region of the hair follicle where active cell division occurs. These cells are responsible for producing new hair cells, which contribute to hair growth.

Clarify the function of the shaft: The shaft is the visible part of the hair that extends above the skin surface. It does not participate in cell division.

Understand the root hair plexus: The root hair plexus is a network of sensory nerves surrounding the base of the hair follicle. It detects movement of the hair but does not involve cell division.

Define the cuticle: The cuticle is the outermost layer of the hair shaft, composed of overlapping cells that protect the hair. It does not play a role in cell division.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Video duration:

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Hair Follicle Structure

The hair follicle is a complex structure in the skin that produces hair. It consists of several parts, including the bulb, matrix, and shaft. Understanding the anatomy of the hair follicle is essential for identifying where specific functions, such as cell division, occur.

Matrix of the Hair Follicle

The matrix is the area at the base of the hair follicle where actively dividing cells are located. These cells proliferate to form the hair shaft and contribute to hair growth. Recognizing the role of the matrix is crucial for answering questions about hair development.

Cell Division in Hair Growth

Cell division, particularly mitosis, is the process by which cells replicate to support growth and regeneration. In the context of hair follicles, this process is vital for producing new hair cells in the matrix, making it a key concept for understanding hair biology.