Pseudostratified columnar epithelium appears to have multiple layers due to what characteristic?

Pseudostratified columnar epithelium is recognized for its unique appearance, which can give the illusion of having multiple layers. This characteristic is primarily attributed to uneven cell height within the tissue. In pseudostratified epithelium, the cells vary in height, with some reaching the apical surface while others do not. This variation allows the nuclei of the cells to be positioned at different levels within the same row of cells, creating a stratified appearance despite it actually being a single layer of cells. This distinctive structural feature is crucial for its function, often seen lining the respiratory tract, where it is involved in secretion and movement of mucus.

The other choices do not accurately describe the defining characteristic of pseudostratified columnar epithelium. A layer of squamous cells is not a defining feature of this type, as pseudostratified epithelium is predominantly composed of columnar cells. Cube-like shape refers to cuboidal epithelium, which is a completely different type of epithelial tissue distinguished by the shape of its cells. Multilayered structure implies a true stratified epithelium, which contrasts with the actual single-layered nature of pseudostratified epithelium despite