Question

Which component is present in human hair?
(a) Cellulose
(b) Keratin
(c) Myoglobin
(d) Albumin

Answer 1

Hint: Hair is a protein filament that grows from follicles found in the dermis. Hair is one of the major defining characteristics of mammals.

Complete answer:
The human body is covered in follicles that produce thick terminal and fine vellus hair. Most people have common interests in their hair style, hair types, and hair care. Hair is an important biomaterial which is primarily composed of protein, notably alpha-keratin. Different forms of hair can be seen all over the world, such as different hairstyles and hair removal, that vary widely across different cultures and historical periods. It is also used to indicate a person's personal beliefs or social position, such as age, sex, or religion. It is calculated that the overall chemical composition of hair is 45 % carbon, 28 % oxygen, 15 % nitrogen, 7 % hydrogen, and 5 % sulphur. The hair shaft is mainly composed of keratin. Hair keratin is hard, compact, and strong in nature. This protein is fibrous and gradually formed inside cells from the germinal layer. The cuticle cells are characterized by the presence of amorphous keratin. The cortical cells have a structure of filaments surrounded by a keratinic substance that is richer in sulfur and contains amino acids. The keratin of these filaments forms a helix and a structure maintained by hydrogen bonds. The protein plays a major role in the cohesion and physical properties of hair.
So, the correct answer is “keratin”.
Note: Hair also contains water and mineral elements such as calcium, cadmium, chromium, copper, zinc, iron, and silicon. These substances help the hair follicle by blood circulation and then contribute to building the hair shaft.