Which type of connective tissue is abundant in the walls of arteries and in the airway?

• A. Reticular connective tissue
• B. Adipose tissue
• C. Dense regular connective tissue
• D. Elastic connective tissue

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the function of arteries and airways: Arteries need to stretch and recoil to accommodate blood flow under pressure, while airways require flexibility to expand and contract during breathing.
2. Review the properties of elastic connective tissue: Elastic connective tissue contains elastic fibers that allow tissues to stretch and return to their original shape, making it ideal for structures that undergo repeated deformation.
3. Compare elastic connective tissue to other options: Reticular connective tissue provides a supportive framework for organs, adipose tissue stores energy and insulates, and dense regular connective tissue resists tension in one direction. None of these are specialized for stretch and recoil like elastic connective tissue.
4. Identify locations where elastic connective tissue is abundant: Elastic connective tissue is found in the walls of arteries and airways because these structures require elasticity to function properly.
5. Conclude that elastic connective tissue is the correct answer based on its unique properties and its role in the walls of arteries and airways.