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

The Epidermis: Cells

Anatomy & Physiology

5. Integumentary System

The Epidermis: Cells

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Problem 11e

Textbook Question

The pigment hemoglobin in red blood cells gives light-colored skin a pinkish hue when it binds large amounts of oxygen.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that binds oxygen in the lungs and transports it to tissues throughout the body. It also contributes to the color of blood and, indirectly, the skin's appearance.

Recognize the relationship between oxygen and hemoglobin: When hemoglobin binds to oxygen, it forms oxyhemoglobin, which has a bright red color. This is why oxygen-rich blood appears brighter and contributes to the pinkish hue in light-colored skin.

Consider the anatomy of skin: Light-colored skin has less melanin, which means the blood vessels in the dermis are more visible. The pinkish hue is due to the reflection of the color of oxygenated blood through the skin.

Understand the physiological process: When hemoglobin binds large amounts of oxygen, it enhances the oxygenation of tissues and increases the visibility of the bright red color of oxyhemoglobin through the skin.

Relate this to overall health: The pinkish hue in light-colored skin can be an indicator of good oxygenation and healthy circulation, as hemoglobin is effectively transporting oxygen throughout the body.

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Key Concepts

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

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It contains iron, which binds to oxygen, allowing red blood cells to carry oxygen efficiently. The structure of hemoglobin enables it to change color based on its oxygen saturation, contributing to the pinkish hue observed in light-colored skin.

Oxygen Binding

Oxygen binding refers to the process by which oxygen molecules attach to hemoglobin in the lungs. This binding is crucial for oxygen transport, as it allows hemoglobin to carry oxygen through the bloodstream to tissues and organs. The amount of oxygen bound to hemoglobin can affect the color of blood and, consequently, the appearance of skin, particularly in individuals with lighter skin tones.

Skin Pigmentation

Skin pigmentation is determined by the presence of melanin, a pigment produced by melanocytes in the skin. In individuals with light-colored skin, lower levels of melanin allow underlying blood vessels and hemoglobin to show through, resulting in a pinkish hue, especially when hemoglobin is oxygenated. This interaction between blood and skin pigmentation plays a significant role in the overall appearance of skin tone.