Chapter 32, Problem 5A

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Blackheads are the small bumps in the skin that develops because of the clogging in the hair follicles. They are called blackheads because of their black look. They are mild acne usually formed on the face they can also appear on back or chest sometimes.

Answer to Problem 5A

Correct answer:

The correct answer is option (a) sebaceous gland become clogged.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer:

Option (a) Blackheads are formed when a clog start developing in the opening of hair follicles of the skin. Follicles in the skin contain hair and sebaceous gland that produces oil. Sebum is the oil that helps in keeping the skin soft. All the dead skin cells and oils get collected in the opening of the follicle.

Explanation for incorrect answer:

Option (b) blackheads aren’t formed when grooves in the epidermis gather dirt.

Option (c) blackheads aren’t formed when hair follicles grow inward rather than outward.

Option (d) blackheads aren’t formed when there is an excess of keratin produced.

Conclusion

The blackheads are formed when the sebaceous gland become clogged.