Why is the lining of your mouth stratified but the lining of your small instentine is not?
The lining of your mouth is stratified to provide protection against abrasion from food and other substances, as it is subject to frequent mechanical stress. This stratified epithelium, typically keratinized or non-keratinized, helps prevent damage and dehydration. In contrast, the lining of the small intestine is a simple columnar epithelium, which is specialized for absorption and secretion, allowing for efficient nutrient uptake. The simpler structure facilitates these functions without the need for the protective layers found in the mouth.