Questions: The protein that reduces water loss at the skin surface is A) melanin. B) keratin. C) collagen. D) mucin. E) eleidin. An albino individual lacks the ability to produce A) eleidin. B) keratin.

Question 20: The protein that reduces water loss at the skin surface is

The answer is B) keratin.

Explanation:

• A) Melanin: This pigment is responsible for skin color and protection against UV radiation, not water loss.
• B) Keratin: This is a fibrous protein that forms a protective layer on the skin's surface, reducing water loss.
• C) Collagen: This protein provides structural support in the skin but does not primarily reduce water loss.
• D) Mucin: This is a glycoprotein found in mucus, not primarily involved in skin water retention.
• E) Eleidin: This is a precursor to keratin found in the stratum lucidum, but keratin is the main protein reducing water loss.

Question 21: An albino individual lacks the ability to produce

The answer is melanin.

Explanation:

• A) Eleidin: This is not related to pigmentation.
• B) Keratin: This protein is unrelated to pigmentation and is present in all individuals.
• Albino individuals lack melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. The question does not provide the correct option for melanin, but that is the correct answer based on the context.