Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of simple squamous epithelium in the alveoli of the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Rapid diffusion of gases

Question 2

A histology slide shows a single layer of tall, rectangular cells with oval nuclei aligned near the base. Which type of epithelium is this, and where is it commonly found?

Accepted Answer

Simple columnar; lining of the small intestine

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of epithelial tissue?

Accepted Answer

Abundant blood vessels within the tissue

Question 4

Which equation best represents the hierarchical organization of the human body from smallest to largest?

Accepted Answer

$$Molecules \rightarrow Cells \rightarrow Tissues \rightarrow Organs \rightarrow Organ Systems$$

Question 5

Which of the following best distinguishes endocrine glands from exocrine glands?

Accepted Answer

Endocrine glands are ductless and release hormones into the blood; exocrine glands secrete products onto epithelial surfaces via ducts.

Question 6

A patient with frequent respiratory infections is found to have defective dynein proteins in their cilia. Which function is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

Movement of mucus over respiratory epithelium

Question 7

Which type of epithelial tissue is specialized for stretching and is found lining the urinary bladder?

Accepted Answer

Transitional epithelium

Question 8

Which of the following cell junctions forms a barrier to prevent the passage of molecules between adjacent epithelial cells?

Accepted Answer

Tight junctions (zonula occludens)

Question 9

A glandular structure is observed to have a duct and a secretory unit composed of multiple cells. Which type of gland is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Multicellular exocrine gland

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the basal lamina?

Accepted Answer

A thin layer of extracellular matrix linking epithelium to underlying connective tissue

Question 11

Which type of epithelial tissue lines the ducts of sweat glands?

Accepted Answer

Stratified cuboidal epithelium

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of cilia on epithelial cells?

Accepted Answer

Move substances such as mucus across the epithelial surface

Question 13

A tissue sample shows multiple layers of cells with the surface layer being flat and scale-like. Which type of epithelium is this?

Accepted Answer

Stratified squamous epithelium

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the function of gap junctions in epithelial tissue?

Accepted Answer

Allow direct communication and passage of ions and small molecules between adjacent cells

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct pairing of epithelial type and its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Stratified squamous epithelium – protection from abrasion

Question 16

A researcher is studying a tissue that is avascular, has a high rate of regeneration, and is supported by a basement membrane. Which tissue type is being studied?

Accepted Answer

Epithelial tissue

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why stratified squamous epithelium is found in areas subject to abrasion, such as the skin and esophagus?

Accepted Answer

It provides a thick, protective barrier due to multiple cell layers

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-world example of a disease caused by a defect in epithelial cell junctions?

Accepted Answer

Pemphigus vulgaris due to autoantibodies against desmosomes

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the difference between simple and stratified epithelial tissues?

Accepted Answer

Simple epithelia have a single layer of cells; stratified epithelia have two or more layers

Question 20

A tissue sample from the trachea shows cells of varying heights, all attached to the basement membrane, with cilia on the apical surface. What type of epithelium is this?

Accepted Answer

Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium

Chapter 4a: Epithelial Tissue – Structure, Function, and Classification

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