Which connective tissue is more flexible than bone and protects the ends of bones?

Which connective tissue is more flexible than bone and protects the ends of bones?

• A. Cartilage
• B. Tendon
• C. Ligament
• D. Adipose tissue

Answer: (A)

Cartilage is the connective tissue that is more flexible than bone and protects the ends of bones by covering the joint surfaces. In joints, the ends of long bones are capped with articular cartilage, mainly a hyaline type, which provides a smooth, low-friction surface for movement. Its matrix is rich in water, proteoglycans, and collagen type II, making it firm yet flexible and capable of absorbing shock during movement. Because cartilage is avascular, it relies on diffusion for nutrients, which contributes to its resilient, cushiony feel that keeps bone ends from grinding directly together. Tendons connect muscle to bone to transmit force; they’re strong and flexible but don’t protect or cushion the ends of bones. Ligaments link bone to bone to stabilize joints; they provide stability rather than a protective, cushioning covering. Adipose tissue stores fat and provides insulation and energy, not joint protection. So, cartilage best fits the description of being more flexible than bone and shielding the ends of bones at joints.

Cartilage is the connective tissue that is more flexible than bone and protects the ends of bones by covering the joint surfaces. In joints, the ends of long bones are capped with articular cartilage, mainly a hyaline type, which provides a smooth, low-friction surface for movement. Its matrix is rich in water, proteoglycans, and collagen type II, making it firm yet flexible and capable of absorbing shock during movement. Because cartilage is avascular, it relies on diffusion for nutrients, which contributes to its resilient, cushiony feel that keeps bone ends from grinding directly together.

Tendons connect muscle to bone to transmit force; they’re strong and flexible but don’t protect or cushion the ends of bones. Ligaments link bone to bone to stabilize joints; they provide stability rather than a protective, cushioning covering. Adipose tissue stores fat and provides insulation and energy, not joint protection.

So, cartilage best fits the description of being more flexible than bone and shielding the ends of bones at joints.