Final answer:
The epithelium of the esophagus is composed of non-keratinized, stratified squamous epithelium, which provides protection without the keratinized layer found in skin.
Step-by-step explanation:
The epithelium of the esophagus is composed of non-keratinized, stratified squamous epithelium. This type of epithelial tissue consists of several stacked layers of cells and serves to protect against physical and chemical wear and tear. Unlike the keratinized variety found in the skin, the non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium does not have a layer of dead cells filled with keratin and is thus well-suited for the esophagus, where a moist environment is needed for the passage of food.
The stomach and intestines, conversely, are lined with a simple columnar epithelium, which is made up of a single layer of tall, narrow cells.