Question

An epithelial tissue that consists of a single layer of flattened cells resting on a basement membrane would be classified as?

1) Simple squamous epithelium
2) Stratified squamous epithelium
3) Simple cuboidal epithelium
4) Simple columnar epithelium

Answer 1

An epithelial tissue with a single layer of flattened cells on a basement membrane is classified as simple squamous epithelium. The option (1) is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

An epithelial tissue that consists of a single layer of flattened cells resting on a basement membrane would be classified as simple squamous epithelium.

This classification is based on the shape of the cells (squamous, which means flattened and thin) and the number of cell layers formed (a single layer, which makes it simple). Simple squamous epithelium is found in places where a minimal barrier to diffusion is needed, such as the alveoli of the respiratory membrane or the endothelium of capillaries. Therefore, option (1) is correct.