Chapter 4: Tissues
QUESTIONS:
1. Explain the importance of each tissue in its location:
• Simple squamous epithelium in the alveoli of the lungs - Simple squamous epithelial cells in the alveoli
allows oxygen from the air to enter the blood in the capillaries of the lung. Carbon dioxide, a waste
product, passes across the epithelium of the alveoli to be removed from the body.
• Ciliated epithelium in the trachea - Cilia in the trachea are an important protective mechanism of the
body and work to trap inhaled foreign particles, preventing them from becoming lodged in the lungs.
When a particle is inhaled, the cilia of the trachea stop and move the object away from the lungs with a
coordinated sweeping action.
• Cartilage in the trachea - Cartilage is strong but flexible tissue. The tracheal cartilages help support the
trachea while still allowing it to move and flex during breathing.
3. Name two organs made primarily of nerve tissue, and state the general functions of nerve tissue.

The two organs made primarily of nerve tissue are brain and spinal cord. Nerve tissue is
responsible for coordinating and controlling many body activities. It can transfers signals in the
body and its organ to tell the body how to respond to changes in its internal and external
environments.
4. Explain the importance of each of these tissues in the small intestine: smooth muscle and columnar
epithelium.
Smooth muscle: - In the stomach and intestines, smooth muscle contracts in waves called peristalsis to
propel food through the digestive tract.
Columnar epithelium: The simple columnar epithelium of the small intestine produces and secretes
mucus and digestive enzymes.
5. State the precise location of each of the following membranes:
• Peritoneum - Lines the abdominal cavity that connects and supports internal organs.
•Visceral pericardium—inner serous membrane surrounding the heart
• Parietal pleura—outer serous membrane surrounding the lungs