1. Epithelial tissues are found lining body surfaces and cavities, covering the outer surface of the body, and forming the lining of internal organs and structures such as the digestive tract, respiratory system, and blood vessels.
2. Squamous: These cells are flat and thin, resembling a scale. They are typically found in areas where diffusion or filtration occurs, such as the alveoli of the lungs and the lining of blood vessels.
Cuboidal: These cells are cube-shaped, with equal height and width. They are often involved in secretion and absorption, and are found in glands and the lining of the kidney tubules.
Columnar: These cells are tall and rectangular, with a height greater than their width. They are involved in absorption and secretion, and are found in the lining of the digestive tract and the respiratory tract.
3. The apical surface of epithelial tissue is the surface that faces the external environment or a body cavity. Microvilli and cilia are located on this surface. Microvilli increase the surface area for absorption, particularly in the small intestine. Cilia are hair-like structures that move substances across the surface, such as mucus in the respiratory tract.
4. The epithelial surface cells are located on the outermost layer, facing the external environment or a body cavity. The basal surface is the bottom surface of the epithelial cells, which is attached to the basement membrane. The basement membrane is a thin, extracellular matrix that separates the epithelial tissue from the underlying connective tissue. It provides structural support and helps in the attachment of the epithelial cells to the connective tissue. The connective tissue lies beneath the basement membrane and provides support, nutrients, and structural integrity to the epithelial tissue.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of epithelial tissue worksheet.
