Final answer:
Epidermal cells are generated in the stratum basale, the deepest layer of the epidermis. This layer is firmly attached to the dermis by the basement membrane, and it is responsible for producing the basal cells that differentiate into the varying types of cells found within the epidermis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Epidermal cells are born in the stratum basale, which is the deepest layer of the epidermis. This layer attaches the epidermis to the basal lamina and lies below the other layers of the dermis. The basement membrane plays a crucial role in binding the stratum basale to the dermis by intertwining collagen fibers.
In the stratum basale, there are several important cell types, including basal cells, melanocytes, and Merkel cells. Basal cells are the stem cells responsible for producing all the keratinocytes of the epidermis. As the keratinocytes are pushed upwards through the layers due to new cell formation, they begin to accumulate keratin, becoming tougher and flatter as they move through the stratum spinosum and upwards towards the skin's surface.
The correct answer is B. stratum basale.