Which tissue is described as having many layers and providing protection with no basement membrane?

• A. Compound epithelium
• B. Stratified squamous epithelium
• C. Columnar epithelium
• D. Ciliated epithelium

Answer: (A)

A multilayered epithelial tissue that provides protection fits this description. Compound epithelium is the older term for stratified epithelium, meaning it has several cell layers. This layered arrangement creates a robust barrier that protects underlying tissues from abrasion, chemical injury, and dehydration. The surface cells are often flattened to form a tough, protective front, while deeper layers can regenerate the surface as it wears away. This is why such tissue is found in areas subjected to wear and tear, like skin and mucous membranes. Other options describe epithelia that are typically a single layer or specialized for movement or secretion, which do not primarily serve as protective multilayer barriers, so the multilayer protective type best matches the description.