Question

*explain the features of the epidermis--include type(s) of tissue it’s composed of: (p. 185-6)

if the epidermis has no direct blood supply, how are epidermal cells supplied with nutrients?

what happens as the older epidermal cells are pushed up to the surface away from their nutrient source?

Explanation:

The epidermis is composed of stratified squamous epithelium. Epidermal cells receive nutrients via diffusion from the underlying dermis where blood vessels are present. As older epidermal cells are pushed to the surface away from the nutrient - rich dermis, they become keratinized and eventually die and are shed.

Answer:

1. The epidermis is composed of stratified squamous epithelium.
2. Epidermal cells are supplied with nutrients by diffusion from the dermis which has blood vessels.
3. Older epidermal cells become keratinized, die, and are shed as they are pushed to the surface away from their nutrient source.