Which of the Following Exclusively Describes Stratified Epithelia

Question

Which of the following exclusively describes stratified epithelia?
A) They consist of a single cell layer.
B) They always have a free surface exposed to some inner chamber or passageway.
C) They are avascular.
D) They cover surfaces subjected to mechanical and chemical stress.
E) None of the answers are correct.

Accepted Answer

Stratified epithelia are specialized to cover surfaces of the body that are subjected to mechanical and chemical stress, such as the skin, oral cavity, and esophagus. They consist of multiple layers of cells and can range from two to many layers thick. They may or may not have a free surface exposed to an inner chamber or passageway, and they may be vascular or avascular. Therefore, options A, B, C, and E are incorrect.