Columnar epithelial cells, like cuboidal epithelial cells, are also hexagonal in cross section, but in contrast to cuboidal cells their height is much greater than their width. The nuclei are crowded into a narrow band close to the basal lamina, and the height of the epithelium is several times the distance between two nuclei (Figure 3.6a). A simple columnar epithelium provides some protection and may also be encountered in areas where absorption or secretion occurs. This type of epithelium lines the stomach, intestinal tract, uterine tubes, and many excretory ducts.