Which of the following is a distinguishing feature of thick skin compared to thin skin in the integumentary system?

• A. Thick skin has more sebaceous glands than thin skin.
• B. Thick skin contains a prominent stratum lucidum layer.
• C. Thin skin is found only on the palms and soles.
• D. Thin skin lacks hair follicles.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of the integumentary system, which includes the skin layers: epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. The epidermis is further divided into layers: stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum (only in thick skin), and stratum corneum.
2. Recognize that thick skin is found on areas of the body subject to high friction, such as the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, and contains all five layers of the epidermis, including the stratum lucidum.
3. Note that thin skin lacks the stratum lucidum layer and is found on most other parts of the body. It also contains hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and fewer sweat glands compared to thick skin.
4. Evaluate the options provided in the question: Thick skin does not have more sebaceous glands (it actually lacks them), thin skin is not limited to palms and soles, and thin skin does not lack hair follicles. The distinguishing feature is the presence of the stratum lucidum in thick skin.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is: 'Thick skin contains a prominent stratum lucidum layer,' as this is the unique feature that differentiates thick skin from thin skin in the integumentary system.