Question

A general characteristic of epithelial tissues is that:

A) Numerous blood vessels are present
B) Cells are spaces apart
C) Cells readily divide
D) There is much extracellular matrix between cells

Answer 1

Option (C), A general characteristic of epithelial tissues is that they have cells that readily divide. They feature closely packed cells with minimal extracellular matrix and are nearly avascular, with nutrients coming from diffusion or absorption.

Step-by-step explanation:

A general characteristic of epithelial tissues is that cells readily divide. Epithelial tissues are highly cellular, with little to no extracellular matrix between the cells other than the basal lamina, which separates the epithelium from underlying tissues.

They are nearly avascular, meaning that they do not contain blood vessels; instead, nutrients are received by diffusion or absorption from underlying tissues or surfaces.

Many epithelial tissues have a high turnover rate, with cells capable of rapid division to replace damaged or dead cells. This regeneration process is crucial for structures like the airways and digestive tracts, allowing quick recovery from damage.