Ch. 4 The Integumentary System Introduction Quiz

Epidermis Structure and Function

• Melanocytes are the cell type responsible for producing melanin in the epidermis.
• The epidermis is composed of stratified squamous epithelium.

Keratinization and Skin Surface

• The process of epidermal cells filling with keratin and moving to the skin surface is called keratinization.
• Keratinization occurs in the stratum spinosum and stratum granulosum layers.

Skin Color Determination

• Genetic factors contribute significantly to determining an individual's skin color.

Epidermal Strength and Elasticity

• Keratin is responsible for the strength and elasticity of the epidermis.

Hair Distribution and Characteristics

• Hairs are found on the entire body, except for the sides and soles of feet and palms of hands.
• The color of hair is determined by the amount and type of melanin present.
• Each hair is surrounded by a muscle called the arrector pili, which is responsible for hair movement when activated.

Epidermal Layers

• The stratum spinosum is the layer of the epidermis responsible for keratinization.

Melanin Function and Distribution

• The primary function of melanin in the skin is to absorb and protect the skin from UV radiation.
• The skin of the palms and soles of feet is the area least likely to have melanin present in the epidermal tissues.

Cell Turnover

• It takes an average of 2-4 weeks for a cell produced in the stratum basale to reach the stratum corneum.