Answer :
Final answer:
The structures that protect the ends of fingers and toes are called nails, which are made of specialized epidermal cells filled with keratin, preventing injury and enhancing sensation. So the correct option is: d) Nails
Explanation:
The structures that protect the ends of the fingers and toes are nails. Nails consist of specialized epidermal cells filled with keratin, which makes them tough. This composition is important for the functions they serve, such as preventing injury by forming protective plates over the ends of fingers and toes, enhancing sensation by acting as a counterforce to the sensitive fingertips when handling objects and serving as tools. Nails grow from nail beds, with new cells added at the nail bed and older cells being pushed away, resulting in nail growth. Interestingly, there are no nerve endings in the nail itself, which is why cutting nails does not cause pain.
