What cushions between bones?

What cushions between bones?

• A. Cartilage
• B. Ligament
• C. Tendon
• D. Bone

Answer: (A)

Cartilage cushions between bones. In joints, the ends of bones are coated with articular cartilage, usually hyaline cartilage, which creates a smooth, low-friction surface that reduces wear and absorbs shocks during movement. This cushioning helps joints glide easily and protects bones from impact. Fibrocartilage also contributes to cushioning in specific areas like the knee and the spine, but the core idea is the same: a resilient pad that distributes load and reduces friction. Ligaments stabilize and guide joint movement by connecting bones, not by cushioning. Tendons attach muscle to bone, transmitting force. Bones alone are rigid and would wear down quickly without cartilage to soften contacts between them.

Cartilage cushions between bones. In joints, the ends of bones are coated with articular cartilage, usually hyaline cartilage, which creates a smooth, low-friction surface that reduces wear and absorbs shocks during movement. This cushioning helps joints glide easily and protects bones from impact. Fibrocartilage also contributes to cushioning in specific areas like the knee and the spine, but the core idea is the same: a resilient pad that distributes load and reduces friction. Ligaments stabilize and guide joint movement by connecting bones, not by cushioning. Tendons attach muscle to bone, transmitting force. Bones alone are rigid and would wear down quickly without cartilage to soften contacts between them.