Growth of nail

Question 1

Where are the cells of the nail plate formed?

Answer 1

The matrix

Question 2

What is the hardening process called that cells undergo when forming the nail plate?

Answer 2

Keratinisation

Question 3

Why is the lunula paler than the rest of the nail?

Answer 3

The germinal matrix underneath the lunula is thicker than under other areas of nail plate does not allow the pinkness of the nail to show through.
Partial keritanisation gives a cloudy appearance.
The nail plate attachment to the nail bed is less firm in this area and so more light is reflected in this area.

Question 4

What effects the growth of the nail?

Answer 4

Seasons
Varies between individuals and nails
Age
Environment 
Temperature 
Time of day

Question 5

How long does it take cells to travel from the lunula to tip of free edge?

Answer 5

8-12 months

Question 6

What happens if matrix is damaged?

Answer 6

The nail will never grow normally again.

Question 7

What makes the nail grow slower?

Answer 7

Illness

Old age

Question 8

Is the nail plate living or dead?

Answer 8

Dead