What Criteria Might an Observer Use to Distinguish Between a Bronchiole

Question

What criteria might an observer use to distinguish between a bronchiole and a bronchus?
A) A bronchiole is lined by columnar epithelium.
B) Cartilage is present in bronchioles but not in bronchi.
C) Cartilage is present in bronchi but not in bronchioles.
D) A bronchus is lined by cuboidal epithelium.

Accepted Answer

The presence of cartilage is the distinguishing factor between a bronchiole and a bronchus. Bronchi have cartilage rings in their walls to help keep the passage open, while bronchioles have no cartilage and instead rely on muscle to regulate airflow. Therefore, choice C is the correct option.