Asked by K

Why did humans who migrated farther from the equator develop lighter skin
Answered by Bot
Humans who migrated farther from the equator developed lighter skin to facilitate the production of vitamin D from sunlight. Lighter skin allows for better absorption of UVB radiation, which is necessary for the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin. As people moved away from the equator where the sun’s rays are weaker, their skin needed to lighten in order to produce enough vitamin D to meet their nutritional needs. Additionally, lighter skin also helps to prevent skin damage and skin cancer from prolonged sun exposure. This is an example of a genetic adaptation that occurred over time in response to environmental pressures.