Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary type of cartilage found in infants and fetuses?
What is the primary type of cartilage found in infants and fetuses?
Which of the following best describes the structure of fibrous cartilage?
Which of the following best describes the structure of fibrous cartilage?
Identify a location where elastic cartilage can be found.
Identify a location where elastic cartilage can be found.
What is a common function of cartilage in the human body?
What is a common function of cartilage in the human body?
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Where is hyaline cartilage typically located in the body?
Where is hyaline cartilage typically located in the body?
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Which feature is NOT characteristic of hyaline cartilage?
Which feature is NOT characteristic of hyaline cartilage?
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What role does cartilage play during skeletal development in embryos?
What role does cartilage play during skeletal development in embryos?
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What is a primary characteristic of elastic cartilage compared to other types?
What is a primary characteristic of elastic cartilage compared to other types?
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Study Notes
Cartilage Composition and Development
- Cartilage is a specialized connective tissue composed of chondrocytes (cells) embedded in a solid extracellular matrix.
- The matrix consists of ground substance and fibers, primarily collagen fibers, giving varying degrees of flexibility and strength to the different cartilage types.
Types of Cartilage and Locations
Hyaline Cartilage
- Structure: Small groups of chondrocytes in a smooth, solid, glassy matrix, appearing bluish-white.
- Location: Found on articulating surfaces of bones, costal cartilages (connecting ribs to sternum), and the cartilages of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi.
- Function: Provides flexible support and reduces friction in joints. It is the main type in infants and fetuses, forming part of the temporary skeleton.
Fibrous Cartilage
- Structure: Dense, tough, and slightly flexible tissue. Chondrocytes are separated by thick, densely packed collagen fibers.
- Location: Found in intervertebral discs, knee and jaw joints, the surrounding rim of bony sockets (hips and shoulders), and the pubic symphysis.
- Function: Provides strength and support where high stress and pressure occur.
Elastic Cartilage
- Structure: Feature: Has elastic fibers within the matrix, providing flexibility.
- Location: Found in the pinna of the ear, epiglottis, and parts of blood vessel walls.
- Function: Provides flexibility and maintains shape.
General Function of Cartilage Types
- Cartilage forms a significant portion of the temporary embryonic/fetal skeleton.
- Often serves as a template or model for the development of bones in the skeleton.
- Its presence on joint surfaces allows flexibility and reduces friction.
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Description
Explore the composition and development of cartilage, a vital connective tissue. Learn about the different types of cartilage, including hyaline and fibrous cartilage, their structures, locations in the body, and functions.
