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Multiple Choice
If the outer surface of the human body were not composed of epithelial tissue, which of the following consequences would most likely occur?
A
The body would lose its ability to contract muscles.
B
The body would be unable to produce red blood cells.
C
The body would lose its primary barrier against pathogens and dehydration.
D
The body would be unable to conduct nerve impulses.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of epithelial tissue: Epithelial tissue forms the outer layer of the body, such as the skin, and serves as a protective barrier against physical damage, pathogens, and water loss.
Analyze the consequences of not having epithelial tissue: Without this protective layer, the body would be exposed to external threats like pathogens (bacteria, viruses) and would lose water through dehydration.
Eliminate incorrect options: The ability to contract muscles is related to muscle tissue, not epithelial tissue. The production of red blood cells occurs in the bone marrow, which is unrelated to epithelial tissue. Conducting nerve impulses is a function of nervous tissue, not epithelial tissue.
Focus on the correct consequence: The absence of epithelial tissue would compromise the body's primary barrier, leading to increased vulnerability to pathogens and dehydration.
Conclude that the correct answer is: 'The body would lose its primary barrier against pathogens and dehydration,' as this directly relates to the function of epithelial tissue.