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 11c

Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
Carotene is a brown-black pigment that accumulates in the stratum corneum.

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the statement provided. The statement claims that carotene is a brown-black pigment that accumulates in the stratum corneum.

Step 2: Recall the properties of carotene. Carotene is actually a yellow-orange pigment, not brown-black. It is a precursor to vitamin A and contributes to the coloration of the skin.

Step 3: Identify where carotene accumulates. Carotene does accumulate in the stratum corneum, as well as in the subcutaneous fat, especially in individuals who consume a diet rich in carotene-containing foods like carrots and sweet potatoes.

Step 4: Correct the false statement. The corrected statement should read: 'Carotene is a yellow-orange pigment that accumulates in the stratum corneum.'

Step 5: Verify the corrected statement by reviewing the role of carotene in skin pigmentation and its accumulation in the stratum corneum and subcutaneous fat.

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Key Concepts

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

Carotene

Carotene is a pigment found in various plants and is responsible for the yellow, orange, and red colors in many fruits and vegetables. In the human body, it can be converted into vitamin A, which is essential for vision and skin health. It is not a brown-black pigment; rather, it typically appears yellow or orange.

Stratum Corneum

The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the skin, composed of dead keratinized cells that provide a barrier to protect underlying tissues. This layer plays a crucial role in preventing water loss and protecting against environmental damage. It does not primarily accumulate pigments like carotene, which are more associated with the dermis and epidermis.

Pigmentation in Skin

Skin pigmentation is primarily determined by the presence of melanin, a pigment produced by melanocytes in the epidermis. While carotene can influence skin color, especially in individuals with high dietary intake, it is not the main pigment responsible for skin tone. Understanding the role of different pigments helps clarify the inaccuracies in the statement regarding carotene.