Question #8e3df
1 Answer
Specialized cells called melanocytes produce a protein pigment called melanin when exposed to ultraviolet light (sunlight).
Explanation:
The lowest layer of the epidermis is called the germinative layer where new skin cells are constantly produced by mitosis. In this layer are specialized cells called melanocytes that produce a protein pigment called melanin when exposed to ultraviolet light (sunlight).
As the cells push upward into the middle layer of the epidermis, the layer of dying cells) the cells lose most of their water and melanin sets in the cell giving the skin color and protecting the lower layers of the skin from UV light like sunglasses protect our eyes. The more sunlight the more melanin is produced. The more melanin the darker the skin.
.
