Ques. 1AIPMT 2002
Melanin protects from:
- Infrared rays
- U.V. rays
- Visible rays
- X-rays
Answer
(2) U.V. rays
Solution
Melanin is a dark pigment produced by melanocytes in the epidermis of the skin.
⇒ It absorbs ultraviolet (U.V.) radiation of sunlight and so protects the deeper skin cells from U.V. damage.
∵ U.V. rays damage DNA and can cause skin cancer, more melanin is made on exposure to sunlight (tanning).
Answer: (2)