Question

The main function of the compound epithelium is?
A. Secretion
B. Absorption
C. Protection
D. All of the above

Answer 1

Hint: The epithelium which is made of more than one layer of cells is known as the compound epithelium. Thus, it has a limited role in secretion and absorption. It performs a lot of functions mainly, they provide protection against chemical and mechanical stresses. They are mainly present at the dry surface of the skin, the moist surface of the buccal cavity, pharynx, inner lining of ducts of salivary glands, and of pancreatic ducts.

Complete answer:
Compound Epithelial tissues have the following primary functions:
1) To protect the tissues that lie beneath from getting damaged from radiation, desiccation, toxins, invasion by pathogens, and physical trauma.
2) The regulation and exchange of chemicals between the underlying tissues.
3) The secretion of hormones into the circulatory system, as well as the secretion of sweat, mucus, enzymes, and other products that are delivered by ducts.
4) To provide sensation.
5) Absorb water and digested food in the lining of the digestive canal.

Option (A), Secretion is correct. Because it secretes hormones into the circulatory system, as well as the secretion of sweat, mucus, enzymes, and other products

Option (B), Absorption is correct because it absorbs water and digested food in the lining of the digestive canal.

Option (C), Protection is correct because It protects the tissues that lie beneath from radiation, desiccation, toxins, invasion by pathogens, and physical trauma.

Option (D) is all of the above

So, the correct option is an option (D) - 'All of the above'.

Note: Compound epithelium is also known as the Stratified epithelium. It is different from simple epithelium as it is multilayered. Therefore, it is located where body linings have to withstand mechanical or chemical stresses. So that such layers can be abraded and lost without exposing subepithelial layers. Stratified epithelia can be of a columnar, cuboidal, or squamous type and they can have the following specializations- keratinized, parakeratinized, and transitional.