What describes changes in the location or orientation of cells?

The correct choice relates to the concept of mechanical changes. These changes refer to the physical alterations in the structure, position, or orientation of cells within tissues due to various forces acting on them. For example, during development or wound healing, cells can migrate or reorganize, leading to changes in their placement and arrangement. This is crucial for processes such as tissue formation, repair, and adaptation to mechanical stresses.

Understanding mechanical changes is important in the context of how tissues respond to forces and how those responses influence overall health and function. The mechanisms underlying these changes can involve cellular signaling pathways that coordinate movement and reorganization of cells in response to physical stimuli.