If the digestive tract were lined with stratified squamous epithelium instead of simple columnar epithelium, several functional problems could occur:1. Impaired nutrient absorption: Stratified squamous epithelium doesn't allow for efficient nutrient absorption, making nutrients unavailable to the body.2. Barrier formation: Layers of cells in stratified squamous epithelium hinder the passage of nutrients and substances into the body.3. Digestive issues: Stratified squamous epithelium doesn't facilitate proper digestion, making food unusable by the body.4. Elimination problems: Stratified squamous epithelium doesn't allow for efficient waste elimination, leading to accumulation of toxins.5. Increased disease susceptibility: Stratified squamous epithelium doesn't provide adequate protection against pathogens and toxins, increasing the risk of diseases.Simple columnar epithelium is better suited for the digestive tract because it:1. Allows efficient nutrient absorption.2. Facilitates proper digestion.3. Enables efficient waste elimination.4. Provides protection against pathogens and toxins.Having stratified squamous epithelium in the digestive tract could lead to severe functional problems.