Art-labeling Activity: Classifying Epithelia Identify the types of epithelia. Part A Drag the labels onto the diagram to identify the types of epithelia. Squamous Simple squamous epithelium Stratified columnar epithelium Stratified squamous epithelium Stratified cuboidal epithelium Simple Cuboidal Columnar Stratified Simple squamous epithelium Simple cuboidal epithelium Simple columnar epithelium Submit My Answers Give Up Incorrect; Try Again; 3 attempts remaining Provide Feedback
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To provide the correct answers for the art-labeling activity on classifying epithelia, here is how the labels typically correspond to epithelial tissue types seen in histology diagrams. Since no image was provided, I will describe the general identification and classification of epithelial tissues in labeled diagrams and provide a 300-word explanation below.
Correct Labeling (Typical)
- Simple Squamous Epithelium – A single layer of flat, scale-like cells. Usually found lining areas where passive diffusion occurs (e.g., alveoli of lungs, blood vessels).
- Simple Cuboidal Epithelium – A single layer of cube-shaped cells with centrally placed nuclei. Found in glands and kidney tubules.
- Simple Columnar Epithelium – A single layer of tall, column-like cells with nuclei often near the base. Found in the digestive tract lining (stomach to anus).
- Stratified Squamous Epithelium – Multiple layers with flat cells at the surface. Provides protection; found in the skin, mouth, and esophagus.
- Stratified Cuboidal Epithelium – Two or more layers of cube-shaped cells. Rare; found in ducts of sweat glands.
- Stratified Columnar Epithelium – Multiple layers with the surface cells being columnar. Rare; found in parts of the male urethra and conjunctiva of the eye.
Explanation
Epithelial tissue serves as a protective barrier and is involved in absorption, secretion, and filtration. It is classified by two criteria: number of layers and cell shape. If the tissue has only one layer, it is “simple”; if it has multiple layers, it is “stratified.”
Simple squamous epithelium consists of flat cells with disc-shaped nuclei, enabling efficient diffusion and filtration, as seen in lung alveoli and capillaries. Simple cuboidal epithelium has cube-like cells that are ideal for secretion and absorption, commonly found in kidney tubules and glandular ducts. Simple columnar epithelium has tall, elongated cells suited for absorption and secretion, often with microvilli or cilia, found in the stomach and intestines.
In contrast, stratified squamous epithelium offers protection against abrasion. The outermost cells are flat, and this type is abundant in areas exposed to wear, such as the skin and oral cavity. Stratified cuboidal epithelium, although rare, enhances protection and secretion in larger ducts like those of sweat glands. Stratified columnar epithelium, also uncommon, is found in specific sites where secretion and structural integrity are needed, such as parts of the pharynx and male urethra.
Correct identification of these tissues under a microscope involves observing cell shape and layering. This classification is critical in histology and pathology, aiding in understanding tissue function and diagnosing diseases.
