Final answer:
Keratinocytes are responsible for the strength and flexibility of the skin, melanocytes protect against UV rays and control skin color, Langerhans cells fight pathogens as part of the immune system, and Merkel cells act as sensory receptors for touch.
Step-by-step explanation:
Matching Cells with Their Functions in the Skin
The cells of the epidermis each have specific functions to maintain the health and structure of the skin:
Keratinocytes (2): Responsible for the strength and flexibility of the skin (a).
Melanocytes (1): Help protect the skin from UV rays and are responsible for skin and hair color (b).
Langerhans cells (3): An important part of the immune system, these cells detect and fight pathogens entering the skin (d).
Merkel cells (4): Function as sensory receptors that respond to light touch (c).