Question 19

Epithelial tissue is the correct type of tissue exhibited in the description.

The characteristics described—cells found on the internal surface of the stomach, no extracellular matrix, tall and thin cells, and absence of blood vessels—are indicative of epithelial tissue, specifically a type known as simple columnar epithelium.

A) Epithelial

This option is correct because epithelial tissue is characterized by closely packed cells that cover surfaces and line cavities. The presence of tall and thin cells aligns with the structure of simple columnar epithelium, which is commonly found in areas such as the stomach lining, where it functions in secretion and absorption.

B) Connective

Connective tissue is incorrect as it typically contains an extensive extracellular matrix and serves to support, bind, or separate other tissues and organs. The lack of an extracellular matrix in the described tissue rules out this option.

C) Muscle

Muscle tissue is not the correct answer since it is composed of cells that are specialized for contraction and movement. The tall and thin cells mentioned do not exhibit the characteristics of muscle fiber structure, and there is no indication of contractile properties.

D) Cartilage

Cartilage is also not the correct option because it is a type of connective tissue that contains a significant extracellular matrix and is typically found in structures such as joints, the ear, and the nose. The absence of an extracellular matrix and blood vessels in the described tissue eliminates cartilage as a possibility.

Conclusion

Epithelial tissue is definitively the correct answer due to its specific structural characteristics, including the absence of an extracellular matrix and the presence of tightly packed cells that line surfaces. Other options fail to meet the criteria presented in the question, reinforcing that the tissue in question is indeed epithelial.