Final answer:
The epithelial tissue consisting of layers of flat cells is known as stratified squamous epithelium. It is designed for protection, found in the skin and inner linings of the mouth and vagina, and has multiple layers with the most apical being scale-like cells.
b is correct
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of epithelial tissue that consists of layers of flat cells is known as stratified squamous epithelium. This tissue type is characterized by multiple layers of cells, with the most apical layer being flat, scale-like cells. Stratified squamous epithelium is especially adept at protecting surfaces from abrasion and is typically found in the skin, as well as in tissues lining the mouth and vagina. The presence of multiple layers makes it an effective barrier against physical and microbial threats.
Importantly, epithelial tissues are classified based on two key characteristics: the shape of the cells and the number of cell layers. Cell shapes can be squamous (flattened), cuboidal (cube-shaped), or columnar (tall, resembling columns). When the cells form only one layer it is called a simple epithelium, but when there are multiple cell layers, it is referred to as stratified epithelium.