Question

The clear, transparent skin layer just under the surface through which light passes is the:

a.stratum germinativum
b.stratum granulosum
c.stratum lucidum
d.stratum corneum

Answer 1

The transparent skin layer under the surface is the stratum lucidum, found only in thick skin and providing a water barrier.

Step-by-step explanation:

The clear, transparent skin layer just under the surface through which light passes is the stratum lucidum. This layer is located above the stratum granulosum and below the stratum corneum. It is a smooth, translucent layer found only in the thick skin of the palms, soles, and digits. The keratinocytes in the stratum lucidum are dead, flattened cells densely packed with eleidin, a clear protein that gives these cells their transparent appearance and helps to provide a water barrier.

Answer 2

The clear, transparent skin layer just under the surface through which light passes is the stratum lucidum. Option C is the answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The stratum lucidum is a thin, clear layer of the epidermis found just beneath the stratum corneum. It is most commonly present in the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. This translucent layer allows light to pass through and provides additional protection to the skin. The stratum lucidum is composed of flattened, densely packed keratinocytes.

In contrast, the stratum germinativum is the basal layer responsible for cell division and renewal, the stratum granulosum is where keratinocytes begin to produce keratin, and the stratum corneum is the outermost layer consisting of dead, keratinized cells.

Therefore, the correct answer is option C, "stratum lucidum."