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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a visible characteristic of areolar connective tissue under the microscope?
A
Densely packed parallel collagen fibers with few cells
B
Loosely arranged fibers with abundant ground substance and scattered cells
C
Large lipid-filled cells with minimal extracellular matrix
D
Concentric rings of bone matrix surrounding central canals
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the structure and function of areolar connective tissue. Areolar connective tissue is a type of loose connective tissue that provides support and flexibility to surrounding tissues. It contains a mix of fibers, cells, and ground substance.
Step 2: Recall the components of areolar connective tissue visible under a microscope. These include loosely arranged fibers (collagen and elastic fibers), abundant ground substance (a gel-like material that fills spaces between cells and fibers), and scattered cells such as fibroblasts, macrophages, and mast cells.
Step 3: Compare the descriptions provided in the options with the known characteristics of areolar connective tissue. Eliminate options that describe features inconsistent with loose connective tissue, such as densely packed parallel collagen fibers (characteristic of dense connective tissue) or concentric rings of bone matrix (specific to bone tissue).
Step 4: Focus on the correct description: 'Loosely arranged fibers with abundant ground substance and scattered cells.' This matches the microscopic appearance of areolar connective tissue, as it is characterized by a loose arrangement of fibers and a significant amount of ground substance.
Step 5: Reinforce your understanding by reviewing histological images of areolar connective tissue to observe its characteristic features, including the scattered cells, loosely arranged fibers, and abundant ground substance.