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Practice Listening: Multiple Choice, Single Answer ID: #41027 Short Epidermis
Instructions ›
You will see a video about the structure and function of the epidermis. Listen to the recording and answer the multiple-choice question by selecting the correct response. Only one response is correct.

Transcript:

The epidermis consists of living and non-living layers. The cells immediately in contact with the dermis close to the nourishing blood supply are alive. These cells divide new ones, pushing older ones away from the dermis. The epidermal cells flatten out and begin to produce a tough, insoluble protein called keratin. Eventually the cells die. This dead outer layer, known as the stratum corneum, forms a shield that holds body fluids in and the environment out. This cross section of the epidermis in a fingertip shows one reason for its great strength, with its complex interlocking structure. Every section of the epidermis holds fast to another, but the loss of a part will not drastically affect the parts around it.

What is the primary function of the stratum corneum in the epidermis?

* Listen to the recording and select the correct answer

Result:

AI explanationShows the answer. Tap to open.
Option 1: "To act as a barrier, retaining body fluids and blocking external elements"

Explanation: The text states that the stratum corneum forms a shield that holds body fluids in and the environment out. This directly supports the idea that its primary function is to act as a barrier. The use of the word 'shield' indicates a protective role, which aligns with the option's description of retaining fluids and blocking external elements.

Option 2: "To supply nutrients to the living cells"

Explanation: This option is incorrect because the text does not mention the stratum corneum supplying nutrients. Instead, it describes the stratum corneum as a dead outer layer that serves a protective function, not a nutritional one. Therefore, this option contradicts the information provided in the text.

Option 3: "To produce keratin for the entire epidermis"

Explanation: While the text mentions that epidermal cells produce keratin, it does not state that the stratum corneum itself is responsible for this production. The keratin production occurs in living cells that are pushing older cells away, not in the stratum corneum, which is composed of dead cells. Thus, this option presents partial information and misrepresents the role of the stratum corneum.

Option 4: "To connect the epidermis to the dermis"

Explanation: This option is incorrect as the text does not describe the stratum corneum as a connecting layer. The connection between the epidermis and dermis is implied to be through the living cells in contact with the dermis, not through the stratum corneum, which is a protective outer layer. Therefore, this option does not accurately reflect the information in the text.

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