Ethnic differences in skin color are primarily caused by differences in ___________.
A)UV radiation exposure
B)the quantity of hemoglobin carried in the blood
C)the quantity of melanin produced
D)the number of melanocytes
E)the number of keratinocytes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ethnic differences in skin color are primarily caused by differences in the quantity of melanin produced. Melanin is a pigment produced by specialized cells called melanocytes that are found in the skin's epidermis. The amount and distribution of melanin determine a person's skin color. People with more melanin have darker skin, while people with less melanin have lighter skin. UV radiation exposure can also play a role in the production of melanin, but it is not the primary cause of ethnic differences in skin color. The quantity of hemoglobin carried in the blood (option B), the number of melanocytes (option D), and the number of keratinocytes (option E) do not contribute to ethnic differences in skin color.

Ethnic Differences in Skin Color Are Primarily Caused by Differences