Final answer:
Scurvy is caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, which affects collagen synthesis and leads to symptoms such as bleeding gums and delayed wound healing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Scurvy is due to a deficiency of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, also known as ascorbic acid, and it plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis. Without enough vitamin C, collagen formation is impaired, leading to symptoms like bleeding gums, delayed wound healing, hair and tooth loss, and joint pain and swelling.