Final answer:
Option (B), The mucous membrane is the type of membrane adapted for absorption or secretion, as it contains glands that produce mucus and lines body cavities that open to the external environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Type of Membrane Adapted for Absorption or Secretion
The type of membrane adapted for absorption or secretion is the mucous membrane. This type of epithelial membrane is composed of an epithelial layer that contains glands and is attached to a layer of connective tissue. It lines body cavities and hollow passageways that open to the external environment, such as the digestive, respiratory, excretory, and reproductive tracts.
The mucous membrane is specialized to secrete mucus through the epithelial exocrine glands which cover the epithelial layer, thereby helping to protect and lubricate the tissues and facilitating the absorption of nutrients and secretion of waste.
In contrast, serous membranes secrete a fluid that reduces friction between organs but aren't specialized for absorption or secretion to the external environment. The cutaneous membrane, or skin, protects the body but is not primarily adapted for absorption or secretion of substances to the external environment. The synovial membrane is a connective tissue that lines the cavities of freely movable joints, producing synovial fluid for lubrication but again is not adapted for absorption or secretion regarding the external environments.