What is the main characteristic of nervous tissue?

• A. Ability to store energy as fat
• B. Ability to provide structural support and protection
• C. Ability to contract and produce movement
• D. Ability to generate and transmit electrical impulses

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the function of nervous tissue. Nervous tissue is specialized for communication and coordination within the body. Its primary role is to generate and transmit electrical impulses, which are essential for signaling between different parts of the body.
2. Step 2: Compare the characteristics of nervous tissue with the other options provided. Nervous tissue does not store energy as fat (this is a characteristic of adipose tissue), nor does it provide structural support and protection (this is a characteristic of connective tissue). It also does not contract to produce movement (this is a characteristic of muscle tissue).
3. Step 3: Focus on the unique property of nervous tissue. Nervous tissue contains neurons, which are specialized cells capable of generating action potentials (electrical impulses) and transmitting them to other neurons, muscles, or glands.
4. Step 4: Recognize the importance of electrical impulses. These impulses allow the nervous system to control and regulate bodily functions, including sensory perception, motor control, and homeostasis.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Ability to generate and transmit electrical impulses,' as this is the defining characteristic of nervous tissue.