Melanin, a natural pigment produced within the body, is primarily responsible for determining what physical characteristic?

Explanation

Melanin is a natural pigment produced by specialized cells called melanocytes, and it is primarily responsible for determining the color of a person’s skin, hair, and eyes, with greater amounts of melanin generally resulting in darker coloring. Beyond its role in coloring, melanin also provides the skin with some natural protection against damage from ultraviolet radiation in sunlight, which is part of why skin often darkens, or tans, with increased sun exposure as the body produces more melanin in response. The amount and specific type of melanin a person produces is largely determined by genetics. Explore more Everyday Science MCQs on mcqstutor to keep practicing.