Final answer:
The layers of cells the student asked about, which are stratum corneum, stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum basale, are all contained in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Layers of the Epidermis
The stratum corneum, stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum basale are the layers of cells contained in the epidermis. This is the outermost layer of the skin that provides a barrier to protect the body from the external environment. The epidermis is connected with the deeper dermis layer by the basement membrane.
The stratum basale is the deepest layer of the epidermis, containing stem cells responsible for the generation of new keratinocytes. As these cells are produced, they are pushed upward, evolving through different stages as represented by the different layers of the epidermis. Next, the stratum spinosum, known as the thickest layer, contains Langerhans cells and spiny keratinocytes. The stratum granulosum follows, where keratinocytes begin to die and fill with keratin. Above this, the stratum lucidum occurs only in thick skin, like the palms and soles, offering a layer of translucent dead keratinocytes. Finally, the outermost stratum corneum consists of dead, flat keratinocytes that help prevent microbial penetration, dehydration, and abrasion to the tissues below.
Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is c. Epidermis.