5 Questions
Describe the characteristics of elastic cartilage.
Elastic cartilage contains elastic fibers and is found in the ear and epiglottis. It helps maintain shape and provides support.
What are the functions of fibrous cartilage?
Fibrous cartilage has thick collagen fibers and is found in intervertebral discs, pubic symphysis, and menisci. Its functions include acting as shock absorbers, providing sturdiness without impeding movement, and deepening sockets to prevent dislocation.
How does cartilage grow?
Cartilage can grow through two processes: appositional growth, where new cells are formed under the perichondrium to increase thickness, and interstitial growth, where chondrocytes divide and produce new matrix to increase length.
At what stage does cartilage growth stop?
Cartilage growth stops at adolescence.
What happens to cartilage with aging?
With aging, cartilage tends to calcify to a certain extent.
Study Notes
Types of Cartilages
- Elastic cartilage has isogenous groups, but they are not as well-defined as in hyaline cartilage
- Elastic cartilage contains elastic fibers
- Found in: ear, epiglottis
- Functions: maintains shape, provides support
Fibrous Cartilage
- Characterized by thick collagen fibers
- Resists pressure
- Limited distribution in the body
- Found in: intervertebral discs, pubic symphysis, menisci
- Functions: shock absorption (e.g. intervertebral disc), provides sturdiness without impeding movement, deepens sockets in articular cavities (e.g. hip and shoulder regions) to prevent dislocation
Cartilage Growth
- Appositional growth: new cells form under the perichondrium, increasing thickness
- Interstitial growth: chondrocytes divide, producing new matrix, increasing length
- Growth stops at adolescence
- With aging, cartilage calcifies (normal to a certain extent)
Discover the different types of cartilages found in the body with this informative quiz. Learn about elastic cartilage and its functions, as well as fibrous cartilage and its unique properties. Test your knowledge and expand your understanding of these essential tissues.
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