Lungs absorb oxygen from inhaled air, and the small intestine moves ingested material through the digestive tract and absorbs nutrients from ingested food. Which statement describes the type of epithelium you would expect to line each of these surfaces?
A) They are both lined by a simple squamous epithelium.
B) They are both lined by a simple cuboidal epithelium.
C) The lungs are lined by a simple squamous epithelium, and the small intestine is lined by a ciliated columnar epithelium.
D) The lungs are lined by a columnar epithelium, and the small intestine is lined by a simple squamous epithelium.
E) The lungs are lined by a simple squamous epithelium, and the small intestine is lined by a simple cuboidal epithelium.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The lungs are lined by a simple squamous epithelium to facilitate gas exchange, allowing oxygen to diffuse efficiently into the blood. The small intestine is lined by a simple columnar epithelium (not specifically ciliated as stated in the options, but this is the closest match), which is specialized for absorption and secretion. This epithelium often has microvilli to increase surface area for nutrient absorption.

Lungs Absorb Oxygen from Inhaled Air, and the Small Intestine