Textbook Question
Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
Tactile cells produce the pigment melanin.
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5. Integumentary System
The Epidermis: Cells
Multiple Choice
Lack of a blood supply within the epidermis is the cause for which characteristic of epidermal cells?
A
They are highly mitotic throughout all layers
B
They are avascular and rely on diffusion for nutrients
C
They are prone to rapid dehydration
D
They contain abundant melanin granules
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of the epidermis: The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and is composed of stratified squamous epithelial cells. It lacks blood vessels, meaning it is avascular.
Recognize the implications of being avascular: Since the epidermis does not have a direct blood supply, nutrients and oxygen must diffuse from the underlying dermis, which contains blood vessels.
Analyze the characteristics of epidermal cells: Due to the reliance on diffusion for nutrients, epidermal cells in the outer layers are less active metabolically and eventually die as they move further away from the nutrient source.
Evaluate the options provided: The correct characteristic of epidermal cells is that they are avascular and rely on diffusion for nutrients. This explains why they cannot be highly mitotic throughout all layers, are prone to dehydration, or contain abundant melanin granules in all layers.
Conclude the reasoning: The lack of blood supply directly correlates with the avascular nature of the epidermis and its reliance on diffusion for survival, which is the defining characteristic in this context.
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