In the context of microbiology and hair analysis, if the hair feels rough when performing a porosity test, it means the cuticle is:

• A. smooth and intact
• B. raised or damaged
• C. covered with oil
• D. completely absent

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the hair cuticle is the outermost layer of the hair shaft, composed of overlapping scale-like cells that protect the inner layers.
2. Recognize that a porosity test assesses how well the hair absorbs and retains moisture, which is influenced by the condition of the cuticle.
3. Know that when the cuticle is smooth and intact, the hair surface feels smooth to the touch during the porosity test.
4. If the hair feels rough, it indicates that the cuticle scales are raised or damaged, causing an uneven texture.
5. Therefore, roughness during the porosity test suggests the cuticle is raised or damaged, not smooth, covered with oil, or completely absent.