Question

Match each statement to a layer of the wall of the esophagus in the key. Answers may be used more than once. a. mucosa b. submucosa c. muscularis d. serosa Very thin layer of squamous epithelium that secretes a fluid, keeping the organ moist

Short answer

The correct layer matching the given statement is the mucosa (a).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the layer that secretes a fluid to keep the esophagus moist.

We must identify which layer of the esophagus wall has squamous epithelium and secretes a fluid to keep the organ moist. In the list of layers provided (mucosa, submucosa, muscularis, and serosa), the mucosa layer is the innermost lining of the esophagus and is primarily composed of squamous epithelial cells. These epithelial cells play a crucial role in maintaining moisture in the organ.

Match the statement to a layer of the esophagus' wall.

The given statement describes a "very thin layer of squamous epithelium that secretes a fluid, keeping the organ moist," which is a property of the mucosa layer. Thus, the correct answer is: a. mucosa