Nail growth occurs primarily in which area?

Nail growth primarily occurs in the nail matrix, which is the tissue located under the base of the nail. The nail matrix contains rapidly dividing cells that produce new nail cells. As these cells multiply and push older cells forward, a hard protein called keratin forms, resulting in the visible nail plate. This process explains why the nail matrix is considered the origin of nail growth.

The nail bed, while important, serves as the support structure for the nail plate rather than the site of growth. The nail plate is the hard part of the nail that is visible and extends beyond the fingertip but does not contribute to its growth. The cuticle, which is the fold of skin that overlaps and protects the base of the nail, plays a role in preventing infection but does not have a direct role in nail growth. Thus, the nail matrix is essential for the production and elongation of the nail, making it the correct answer.