What type of epithelium lines the alveoli of the lungs?
Practice Questions
Q1
What type of epithelium lines the alveoli of the lungs?
Simple cuboidal epithelium
Stratified squamous epithelium
Simple squamous epithelium
Pseudostratified columnar epithelium
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
What type of epithelium lines the alveoli of the lungs?
Step 1: Understand what alveoli are. Alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.
Step 2: Know what epithelium is. Epithelium is a type of tissue that covers surfaces in the body.
Step 3: Identify the type of epithelium in the alveoli. The alveoli are lined with a very thin layer of cells.
Step 4: Recognize that this thin layer is called simple squamous epithelium.
Step 5: Understand why simple squamous epithelium is important. Its thin structure allows oxygen and carbon dioxide to easily pass through, making gas exchange efficient.