If the matrix is longer, what happens to the nail plate thickness?

• A. Thinner
• B. No change
• C. More curved
• D. Thicker

Answer: (D)

The thickness of the nail plate is determined by how much keratin the nail matrix can produce. When the matrix is longer, there is more tissue to generate nail cells, so more keratin is laid down and the nail plate becomes thicker. If the matrix were shorter, fewer cells would be produced and the plate would be thinner. Curvature is a different characteristic and isn’t the focus here.