Question

The mesentery (MESS un tayr ee) is a structure that connects the loops of the small intestine. The mesentery binds the intestine together so that it can’t get tangled or twisted. The mesentery also carries blood, nerve signals, and lymph fluids to and from the intestine.

Scientists recently classified the mesentery as an organ. What must be true if the mesentery is an organ? Choose the three statements that apply.
A. It is part of an organ system.
B. It has a specific function in the body.
C. It is composed of different kinds of tissues.
D. It is found in every type of multicellular organism.
E. It is a group of similar cells that carry out the same function.

Answer 1

The mesentery being classified as an organ suggests it has a specific function, is part of an organ system, and is composed of different kinds of tissues. It functions in the digestive system by supporting abdominal organs and transporting fluids and signals.

Step-by-step explanation:

The recent classification of the mesentery as an organ implies several things. According to what is known about organs:

• B. It must have a specific function in the body, which in the case of the mesentery involves anchoring the intestines, and the transportation of blood, nerve signals, and lymph fluids.
• A. It is part of an organ system. The mesentery is a component of the digestive system and is involved in supporting the digestive organs within the abdominal cavity.
• C. It is composed of different kinds of tissues. The digestive tract, including the mesentery, consists of several tissue layers like mucosa, submucosa, muscularis, and serosa.

Option E is incorrect because an organ is typically more complex and includes different types of tissues, not just similar cells. Option D is also incorrect because not all multicellular organisms have a mesentery; it is specific to certain types of animals.