Final answer:
The rings of the trachea are made up of hyaline cartilage, providing support to keep the tracheal tube open during breathing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of tissue that makes up the rings of the trachea is hyaline cartilage. The trachea is formed by 16 to 20 stacked, C-shaped pieces of hyaline cartilage, which are connected by dense connective tissue. This structure provides structural support and keeps the tracheal tube open during inhalation and exhalation.
Hyaline cartilage is the most common type of cartilage in the body, featuring short and dispersed collagen fibers, and has a smooth surface that is both strong and flexible.