The function of epithelial tissue is to ________.

• A. store energy as fat
• B. produce nerve impulses
• C. provide a protective covering for body cavities and the surfaces of organs
• D. contract to move the body

Answer: (C)

Epithelial tissue mainly serves to cover and protect the surfaces of the body, lining body cavities and the surfaces of organs. This creates a protective barrier on the skin and along internal passages, helping prevent injury and fluid loss while also regulating what can be exchanged at surfaces and cavities. While epithelial tissue can participate in secretion, absorption, and filtration in specialized regions, its primary role is the protective covering and lining of surfaces. Storing energy as fat is a function of adipose tissue, producing nerve impulses is a function of nervous tissue, and contracting to move the body is a function of muscle tissue.