Final answer:
The nasal cavity and upper respiratory tract are lined by pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium with goblet cells, while the superior portion of the larynx has a lining of stratified squamous epithelium. The oral cavity is lined by non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of epithelium that lines the anterior third and posterior two-thirds of the nasal cavity, as well as the oral cavity and larynx, varies in structure to serve different functions. The nasal cavity and the upper respiratory tract are predominantly lined by respiratory epithelium composed of pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium. This epithelial tissue contains goblet cells which produce mucus to trap debris and pathogens. The cilia present within the epithelium beat the mucus upward towards the throat, facilitating its removal through swallowing. In the superior portion of the larynx, the lining transitions into stratified squamous epithelium, which also plays a protective role. The mucous membranes of the oral cavity are typically lined by non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.