Question

How can squamous epithelia both facilitate diffusion and prevent damage from abrasion?

a) They have a thin structure for easy diffusion and are highly protective due to their cuboidal shape.
b) They are flat and thin, allowing efficient diffusion while being tough enough to resist abrasion.
c) They have cilia for easy diffusion and secrete mucus to protect against abrasion.
d) They have microvilli for efficient diffusion and secrete enzymes to prevent abrasion.

Answer 1

Squamous epithelia facilitate diffusion and protect against abrasion by having a flat and thin structure that allows for efficient gas exchange and by forming stratified layers that are tough and replaceable.

Step-by-step explanation:

Squamous epithelia, which are round, flat cells arranged in a single layer, can both facilitate diffusion and prevent damage from abrasion. The flat and thin structure of squamous epithelia allows for efficient diffusion of gases, nutrients, and waste across tissues such as the lungs and blood capillaries. Additionally, squamous epithelia provide protection against abrasion by forming stratified layers that are tough enough to resist damage and can be replaced following injury.