Synovial Joints Quiz: Anatomy and Function

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Questions and Answers

What is the main function of the bursae in synovial joints?

To provide structural support to the joint

To increase movement in the joint

To produce synovial fluid

To reduce friction between structures (correct)

Which type of synovial joint permits movement in two planes?

Saddle joint (correct)

Pivot joint

Plane joint

Hinge joint

What is the characteristic of the articular surfaces in plane joints?

Cylindrical

Concave and convex

Saddle-shaped

Opposed flat surfaces (correct)

What type of joint is the elbow joint?

Hinge joint Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the synovial fluid in synovial joints?

To reduce friction and lubricate the joint Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for inflammation of a bursa?

Bursitis Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of synovial joints that allows for greater mobility?

The fluid-filled joint cavity Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the articular cartilage in synovial joints?

To provide a smooth surface where the bones meet Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the joint capsule in synovial joints?

To hold the bones together while allowing for movement Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of synovial joints?

The fusion of the bones in the joint Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton in terms of synovial joints?

The appendicular skeleton has more synovial joints than the axial skeleton Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of ligaments and tendons in synovial joints?

To contribute to the strength of the joint Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor that determines the type of movement occurring at a joint?

Structure of the joint Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following joints is characterized by multiple axes of movement, with one axis predominating?

Shoulder joint Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the movement of a joint in multiple directions?

Multiple axes movement Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following joints is characterized by movement in only two axes?

Knee joint Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the articular cartilage in synovial joints?

To reduce friction between bones Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following joints is characterized by movement in one axis only?

Elbow joint Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Synovial Joints and Synovial Membrane

A synovial membrane lines the joint cavity, except over the articular cartilage.
The membrane produces synovial fluid, a complex mixture of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and cells.
Synovial fluid forms a thin, lubricating film covering the surfaces of the joint.

Bursae

A synovial membrane may extend as a pocket, or sac, called a bursa, which reduces friction between structures that rub together.
Examples of bursae include those located where a tendon crosses a bone.
Inflammation of a bursa is called bursitis.

Types of Synovial Joints

Synovial joints are classified according to the shape of the adjoining articular surfaces.
Plane joints, or gliding joints, consist of two opposed flat surfaces that glide over each other.
Examples of plane joints are the articular facets between vertebrae.
Saddle joints consist of two saddle-shaped articulating surfaces oriented at right angles to each other.
Examples of saddle joints include the joint between the metacarpal bone and the carpal bone (trapezium) of the thumb.
Hinge joints permit movement in one plane only.
Examples of hinge joints include the elbow and knee joints.

Characteristics of Synovial Joints

Synovial joints are freely movable joints that contain fluid in a cavity surrounding the ends of articulating bones.
Most joints that unite the bones of the appendicular skeleton are synovial joints.
Articular surfaces of bones within synovial joints are covered with a thin layer of articular cartilage.
The articular surfaces are enclosed within a fluid-filled joint cavity.
The joint cavity is surrounded by a joint capsule, which helps hold the bones together.
Portions of the fibrous part of the joint capsule may be thickened to form ligaments.
Ligaments and tendons outside the joint capsule contribute to the strength of the joint.

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Description

Learn about the structure and function of synovial joints, including the synovial membrane, synovial fluid, and bursae. Understand how these components work together to facilitate movement and reduce friction. Test your knowledge of the anatomy of synovial joints!