A stratified epithelium is composed of ________.
A) a single layer of cells of variable height
B) squamous cells overlying cuboidal cells
C) a tight layer of square cells attached to a basement membrane
D) alternating layers of thick and thin cells
E) multiple layers of cells, stacked from the basolateral side to the apical side

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A stratified epithelium is composed of multiple layers of cells, stacked from the basolateral side to the apical side. This type of epithelium is particularly suited for providing protection against mechanical stress and abrasion, which is why it is found covering surfaces that are subject to wear and tear, such as the skin and certain mucous membranes. The cells in the bottom layers are typically cuboidal or columnar, while those in the upper layers are flatter and squamous in shape.

A Stratified Epithelium Is Composed of ________