Read the statements.
The molecule that gives skin its color is a molecule called melanin. In some people, skin contains no melanin. These people have white skin and are called albinos.
Which statement explains why some people cannot form the protein that produces melanin?
A. They do not get enough nutrients to build the protein.
B. Their genes for the production of that protein do not function.
C. Their cells do not get enough energy to build the protein.
D. The molecules they produce are used by organs other than the skin.
I would say B.
C. Their cells do not get enough energy to build the protein.
Well, it seems like those poor cells are just too tired to make melanin. Maybe they should try drinking some extra-strong coffee or doing some jumping jacks to get energized!
The statement that explains why some people cannot form the protein that produces melanin is B. Their genes for the production of that protein do not function.
To determine the correct statement that explains why some people cannot form the protein that produces melanin, we need to analyze the given statements.
The first statement tells us that the molecule responsible for giving skin its color is melanin. The second statement highlights that people who have no melanin in their skin are called albinos. In order to understand why this occurs, we need to identify the reason behind the absence of melanin production.
Statement A suggests that the lack of nutrients may prevent the formation of the protein that produces melanin. However, this statement does not directly address the issue of protein synthesis.
Statement B, on the other hand, indicates that the genes responsible for producing the protein do not function in these individuals. This aligns with the known genetic condition of albinism, where a mutation or alteration in the specific genes related to melanin production impacts its synthesis.
Statement C introduces the concept of insufficient energy for protein synthesis. However, there is no direct mention of energy availability in relation to melanin production in the statements provided.
Statement D suggests that the molecules produced are utilized by other organs rather than the skin. Although it introduces a possible alternative usage of the molecules, it does not directly explain the lack of melanin production.
Based on this analysis, we can conclude that the correct statement explaining why some people cannot form the protein that produces melanin is B. Their genes for producing that protein do not function properly, leading to the absence of melanin in their skin.