What type of tissue lines the tubes of the airways?

The type of tissue that lines the tubes of the airways is epithelial tissue. Epithelial tissue serves several critical functions in the respiratory system, including protection, secretion, and absorption. In the airways, specifically, it is typically composed of ciliated columnar epithelium that helps to trap and clear particulate matter and pathogens from the air we breathe.

This ciliated epithelial tissue is equipped with hair-like structures called cilia, which move in coordinated waves to push mucus and debris out of the airways towards the throat, where it can be swallowed or expelled. The epithelial lining also contains goblet cells that secrete mucus, enhancing the protective barrier and keeping the airways moist.

While muscle tissue is essential for movements such as bronchoconstriction and bronchodilation, it does not line the airways. Connective tissue provides support and structure but is found beneath the epithelial layer rather than lining the airways. Nervous tissue is involved in the control and regulation of activities in the lungs but does not form the lining of the airway tubes. Thus, the characteristics and functions of epithelial tissue make it the correct answer in this context.