Final answer:
The name given to grayness or whiteness of the hair is canities. Canities refers to the natural graying or whitening of the hair due to the loss of pigment cells, called melanocytes, in the hair follicles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The name given to grayness or whiteness of the hair is canities.
Canities refers to the natural graying or whitening of the hair due to the loss of pigment cells, called melanocytes, in the hair follicles. This process is a normal part of aging and can be influenced by genetic factors as well.
For example, as people get older, their hair follicles produce less melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. Over time, the reduced melanin production can result in graying or whitening of the hair. Canities commonly occurs in older adults but can also be seen in younger individuals due to factors such as stress, certain medical conditions, or nutritional deficiencies.