Problem 1 - Campbell Biology

Question

The body tissue that consists largely of material located outside of cells is (A) epithelial tissue. (B) connective tissue. (C) muscle tissue. (D) nervous tissue.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

B) Connective tissue.

Step 1: Identify the characteristic

Determine which type of body tissue consists largely of material located outside of cells, often known as the extracellular matrix.

Step 2: Analyze tissue types

Review the characteristics of the given tissue types: epithelial tissue, connective tissue, muscle tissue, and nervous tissue.

Step 3: Understand extracellular matrix

Connective tissue is well-known for having a large amount of extracellular matrix, which includes proteins, fibers, and other substances around the cells.

Step 4: Eliminate options

Epithelial tissue covers surfaces and forms glands, not characterized by abundant extracellular matrix. Muscle tissue consists of cells that contract, also not known for a large extracellular matrix. Nervous tissue transmits signals and is composed mainly of neurons and glial cells without much extracellular material.

Step 5: Select the correct option

Based on the analysis, connective tissue is the correct answer because it has a significant amount of material located outside of cells.

Key Concepts

extracellular matrix

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a critical component in connective tissues.
It consists of a complex network of proteins and other molecules that fill the spaces between cells.
Key components include collagen, elastin, and proteoglycans.
The ECM is essential for providing structural support, facilitating cell communication, and influencing cell behavior.

Note that in connective tissues, the ECM is especially abundant, differentiating it from other tissue types.
It plays a vital role in functions like wound healing and tissue repair.

body tissue types

The human body consists of four main tissue types:

• Epithelial tissue: Covers body surfaces and lines hollow organs, vessels, and body cavities. It forms protective barriers and is involved in absorption, secretion, and sensation.


• Connective tissue: Provides support, binds together, and protects tissues and organs of the body. It includes a diverse range of tissue types such as bone, blood, and fat (adipose tissue).


• Muscle tissue: Composed of cells that have the unique ability to contract, causing movement. It includes skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle tissues.


• Nervous tissue: Made up of neurons and supportive glial cells. It is responsible for transmitting electrical signals throughout the body, enabling communication between different body parts.

characteristics of connective tissue

Connective tissue is characterized by its large amount of extracellular matrix.
Other key characteristics include:

• Variety: There are various types of connective tissues, including loose connective tissue, dense connective tissue, cartilage, bone, and blood.


• Support and Binding: Connective tissues support and bind other tissues together. For example, tendons connect muscles to bones, and ligaments connect bones to each other.


• Protection: Protect organs and provide cushioning, found in fat (adipose) tissue and bone.


• Transport: Blood, a type of connective tissue, is responsible for transporting nutrients, gases, and waste products throughout the body.

Thus, connective tissue plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure and function of the body by providing support, protection, and facilitating communication and transport of crucial substances.