What vitamin is produced by sunlight and is important for bone formation?

The correct answer is vitamin D. This vitamin plays a crucial role in bone formation and health because it helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones. When skin is exposed to sunlight, it synthesizes vitamin D through a chemical reaction that occurs when ultraviolet (UV) rays interact with cholesterol in the skin. This natural production of vitamin D is a key reason why sunlight is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin."

In the context of bone health, vitamin D deficiency can lead to conditions such as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, which are characterized by weakened bone structure. Thus, sufficient vitamin D levels are vital for proper bone mineralization and overall skeletal integrity.