Which type of wound involves bleeding due to the skin being broken?

An open wound is characterized by the skin being broken, which allows for exposure of underlying tissues and can lead to bleeding. This type of wound can occur from various causes, such as cuts, lacerations, abrasions, or punctures. Because the skin serves as a crucial barrier for protection against pathogens and environmental elements, when it is compromised, there is an increased risk of infection and more significant blood loss depending on the severity of the injury.

In contrast, a closed wound does not involve any break in the skin, meaning that while there may be internal bleeding or bruising, the external layer remains intact. A contusion, commonly known as a bruise, specifically refers to bleeding beneath the skin without any skin damage, which further differentiates it from an open wound. Burns result in damage to the skin but do not involve a break that allows for external bleeding, unless they are severe enough to create open areas. Therefore, the defining characteristic of an open wound is the breach of the skin, leading to potential bleeding, which makes it the correct answer.