What pigment is responsible for the brownish-black color found in skin, hair, and eyes?

The pigment responsible for the brownish-black color found in skin, hair, and eyes is melanin. Melanin is a natural pigment produced by melanocytes, which are specialized cells located in the skin. It plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation by absorbing and dissipating UV rays. This protective function also contributes to the coloration of the skin, hair, and eyes, determining individual variations in color based on genetic factors.

In contrast, hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen, giving blood its red color. Carotene is a pigment found in many plants, responsible for the yellow and orange colors seen in carrots and other vegetables. Chlorophyll is the pigment that gives plants their green color and is essential for photosynthesis. Therefore, among the choices given, melanin is the only pigment directly associated with the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes.