Final answer:
Mucous membranes line cavities that lead to the exterior and are found in tracts like the digestive and respiratory systems. Serous membranes line closed internal body cavities such as the peritoneal, pleural, and pericardial cavities, and they produce serous fluid to reduce friction between organs.
Step-by-step explanation:
We can compare mucous membranes and serous membranes by considering their location and function within the body. Mucous membranes are epithelial tissues that are found lining body cavities and hollow passageways that open to the external environment, such as the digestive, respiratory, excretory, and reproductive tracts. These membranes produce mucous, which helps to protect the lining and trap unwanted particles.
On the other hand, serous membranes are also epithelial tissues but they line body cavities that are not open to the exterior, such as the peritoneal, pleural, and pericardial cavities. These membranes produce a slippery serous fluid that reduces friction between organs, such as during the movement of lungs and the heart.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is B. Mucous membranes line tubes that lead to the outside of the body and serous membranes line body cavities that are closed off to the exterior.