Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Rapid diffusion of gases

Question 2

A tissue sample is observed under the microscope and shows multiple layers of flat cells at the surface, with deeper layers appearing cuboidal or columnar. Which tissue type is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Stratified squamous epithelium

Question 3

Which characteristic is unique to epithelial tissues compared to other primary tissue types?

Accepted Answer

Cells exhibit polarity with distinct apical and basal surfaces

Question 4

A patient suffers a burn that destroys the basal lamina of the skin. Which process will be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Regeneration of epithelial cells

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why epithelial tissues are avascular but innervated?

Accepted Answer

They receive nutrients by diffusion from underlying connective tissue and are supplied by nerve fibers

Question 6

A gland that releases its product by exocytosis without loss of cellular material is classified as which type of gland?

Accepted Answer

Merocrine

Question 7

Which of the following is a function of the microvilli found on the apical surface of some epithelial cells?

Accepted Answer

Increase surface area for absorption

Question 8

A biopsy from a patient's urinary bladder reveals an epithelium with cells that change shape and appear cuboidal when relaxed and squamous when stretched. What is the most likely type of epithelium?

Accepted Answer

Transitional epithelium

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the main difference between endocrine and exocrine glands?

Accepted Answer

Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the blood; exocrine glands secrete products onto body surfaces or into body cavities

Question 10

A researcher is studying a tissue that lines the small intestine and is specialized for absorption and secretion. Which type of epithelial tissue is she most likely observing?

Accepted Answer

Simple columnar epithelium

Question 11

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

Accepted Answer

Contraction

Question 12

A multicellular exocrine gland with a branched duct and secretory cells arranged in sac-like clusters is classified as which type?

Accepted Answer

Compound alveolar (acinar)

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why stratified epithelial tissues are more durable than simple epithelial tissues?

Accepted Answer

They have multiple layers of cells, providing greater protection against abrasion

Question 14

A patient with a genetic defect in tight junction proteins would most likely experience which of the following problems?

Accepted Answer

Leakage of substances between epithelial cells

Question 15

Which of the following statements about the basal lamina is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is composed mainly of reticular fibers and provides a scaffold for cell migration in wound repair

Question 16

Which of the following equations best represents the relationship between surface area and absorption rate in epithelial tissues with microvilli?

Accepted Answer

$ Absorption\ Rate \propto Surface\ Area $

Question 17

A pathologist identifies a gland that accumulates its secretory product until the cell ruptures, releasing both the secretion and cell fragments. This gland is best classified as:

Accepted Answer

Holocrine

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the process by which nutrients reach epithelial cells in the skin?

Accepted Answer

Diffusion from blood vessels in underlying connective tissue

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

Pseudostratified columnar epithelium

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why epithelial tissues have a high regenerative capacity?

Accepted Answer

They are stimulated by loss of apical-basal polarity and lateral contacts

Tissue: The Living Fabric – Epithelial Tissue Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards