Which of the following is a characteristic of connective tissue?

Connective tissue has a primary role in connecting and supporting other tissues and organs in the body. This type of tissue is characterized by a variety of cell types embedded within an extracellular matrix that can be solid, gelatinous, or liquid, depending on the type of connective tissue. It is crucial for providing structural support, nutrient transportation, and immune responses. Examples of connective tissue include bone, blood, adipose tissue, and cartilage, all of which serve functions related to support and connection.

The other options describe characteristics of different types of tissues. For instance, covering body surfaces pertains to epithelial tissue, which forms protective layers on the skin and organ linings. Muscle tissue is specialized for contraction, which facilitates movement and stability. Lastly, nerve tissue is responsible for transmitting nerve impulses, a function specific to neurons and glial cells. Understanding these distinctions is important for identifying the various functions and roles that different types of tissue play in the body.