Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

4. Tissues & Histology

Characteristics of Epithelial Tissue

Anatomy & Physiology

4. Tissues & Histology

Characteristics of Epithelial Tissue

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3:56 minutes

Problem 8

Textbook Question

Which epithelium is 'built' to withstand friction?
a. Simple squamous
b. Stratified squamous
c. Simple cuboidal
d. Simple columnar
e. Pseudostratified

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the question: The problem is asking which type of epithelium is designed to withstand friction. This requires knowledge of the structure and function of different epithelial tissues.

Recall the characteristics of each epithelial type: - Simple squamous: Thin, single layer of flat cells, designed for diffusion and filtration, not for withstanding friction. - Stratified squamous: Multiple layers of cells, with the outermost layer being flat, designed to protect against abrasion and friction. - Simple cuboidal: Single layer of cube-shaped cells, primarily involved in secretion and absorption, not friction resistance. - Simple columnar: Single layer of tall, column-like cells, specialized for absorption and secretion, not friction resistance. - Pseudostratified: Appears layered but is a single layer of cells with nuclei at different heights, often involved in secretion and movement of mucus, not friction resistance.

Identify the epithelium designed for friction resistance: Stratified squamous epithelium is specifically structured with multiple layers to protect underlying tissues from mechanical stress and friction. The outer layers can be shed and replaced, making it ideal for areas subject to abrasion.

Eliminate incorrect options: - Simple squamous, simple cuboidal, simple columnar, and pseudostratified epithelia are not designed to withstand friction due to their single-layer structure or specialized functions unrelated to mechanical protection.

Conclude the correct answer: The epithelium 'built' to withstand friction is stratified squamous. This tissue is commonly found in areas like the skin, mouth, and esophagus, where friction is frequent.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Types of Epithelium

Epithelium is classified into various types based on the number of cell layers and the shape of the cells. The main categories include simple (single layer) and stratified (multiple layers) epithelium, with shapes such as squamous (flat), cuboidal (cube-shaped), and columnar (tall and column-like). Understanding these classifications is essential for determining the functional properties of different epithelial tissues.

Function of Stratified Squamous Epithelium

Stratified squamous epithelium consists of multiple layers of cells, providing a robust barrier against mechanical stress and friction. This type of epithelium is commonly found in areas subject to abrasion, such as the skin, mouth, and esophagus, where it protects underlying tissues from damage and dehydration.

Role of Epithelial Tissue in Protection

Epithelial tissues serve various functions, including protection, absorption, secretion, and sensation. The protective role is particularly important in areas exposed to friction and wear, where specialized epithelial types, like stratified squamous epithelium, are adapted to withstand such physical stress, ensuring the integrity of underlying tissues.

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