Which type of tissue has pillar-shaped cells arranged tightly together?

Columnar epithelium is characterized by its pillar-shaped cells, which are taller than they are wide. This specific arrangement allows for effective absorption and secretion, making columnar epithelium particularly well-suited for locations such as the gastrointestinal tract and the respiratory system. The cells are tightly packed together, which helps to form a protective barrier while also facilitating the movement of substances across the epithelial surface.

In contrast, simple squamous epithelium consists of a single layer of flat cells, making it more suited for diffusion and filtration processes, such as in the alveoli of the lungs or the lining of blood vessels. Stratified epithelium contains multiple layers of cells, providing added protection in areas subject to abrasion, such as the skin or the lining of the mouth. Cuboidal epithelium features cube-shaped cells, which typically play a role in secretion and absorption, found in glands and some ducts. Each of these tissues has distinct structures and functions that differentiate them from columnar epithelium, emphasizing the unique characteristics of pillar-shaped cells and their arrangement within this specific type of tissue.