Problem
Watch the YouTube video "How We Get Our Skin Color produced by HHMI BioInteractive Video". This video describes how skin color is generated by skin cells as protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Then answer the following questions. You may wish to watch the video several times or pause the video as you complete your answers.
A. List the three layers of skin and indicate which layer of skin gives humans their skin color.
B. Briefly describe the functions of keratinoctyes and melanocytes.
C. Describe the cellular process that produces skin color. Be sure to include the following terms: malanosome, melanin, tyrosine, keratinocytes.
D. How does melanin protect the cells from UV radiation? What are the risks of UV radiation?
E. Briefly state what determines an individual's baseline skin color and how much it can tan.