Pigment 

 Pigment refers to any substance that imparts color to an object or substance. In biological terms, pigments are molecules that absorb certain wavelengths of light and reflect or transmit others, resulting in the perception of color. Pigments are found in a variety of living organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, and they play critical roles in a range of functions such as photosynthesis, camouflage, and signaling.

In humans, the primary pigment responsible for skin color is melanin, produced by specialized cells called melanocytes located in the epidermis. Melanin comes in two main types: eumelanin, which is brown or black, and pheomelanin, which is yellow or reddish. The relative amounts and distribution of these pigments determine an individual's skin color and also influence hair and eye color.

Other pigments found in the human body include:

1. Hemoglobin:- This pigment is responsible for the red color of blood and gives skin its pinkish hue, especially in areas where blood vessels are close to the skin's surface.

2. Carotenoids:- These are yellow to red pigments found in certain fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and tomatoes. When consumed, carotenoids can accumulate in the skin, imparting a slightly yellowish tint.

3. Bilirubin:- This pigment is a breakdown product of red blood cells and is responsible for the yellow color of bruises and jaundice.

4. Hemosiderin:- Another breakdown product of hemoglobin, hemosiderin is responsible for the brownish color of bruises and certain skin discolorations.

Pigments play a crucial role in the aesthetics and functioning of living organisms, contributing to everything from the vibrant colors of flowers and birds to the diverse range of skin tones found in human populations. They are also of significant interest in fields such as art, cosmetics, and materials science.