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Questions and Answers
What is the primary characteristic of hyaline cartilage?
Which type of cartilage is characterized by tightly packed collagen fibers?
What is a distinctive location for elastic cartilage?
Which cartilage type is not easily repaired following injury?
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Where is fibrous cartilage commonly located?
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What is the primary function of cartilage in the body?
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Which of the following statements about cartilage is correct?
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What is the role of chondroblasts in cartilage?
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Which type of cartilage is primarily found in joints and provides a smooth surface for movement?
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What surrounds cartilage tissue and provides it with nutrients?
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What is the primary difference between immature chondroblasts and mature chondrocytes?
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Which type of cartilage is most likely to resist compressive forces and is found in intervertebral discs?
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Which component is NOT found in the matrix of cartilage?
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Study Notes
Overview of Cartilage
- Cartilage is a firm, avascular, non-calcified connective tissue essential for various body functions.
- It forms a temporary skeleton in the embryo and serves as a model for skeletal bones.
- Present on articular surfaces of joints, cartilage provides flexibility and smooth movement.
Importance in Head and Neck
- The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is crucial; issues may lead to limited movement and discomfort.
- Cartilage relies on surrounding connective tissues for nutrients, facilitated by the perichondrium, a fibrous connective tissue sheath.
Composition of Cartilage
- Made up of cells (chondroblasts and chondrocytes) and a matrix consisting of fibers and ground substance.
- Chondroblasts are immature cells that produce the cartilage matrix, while chondrocytes maintain it.
- The matrix includes proteoglycans, chondronectin, and water, with fibers contributing to cartilage’s strength (40% of dry weight).
Types of Cartilage
- Three main types: hyaline, fibrous, and elastic; all initially start as hyaline cartilage.
Hyaline Cartilage
- The principal type in fetuses and infants; characterized by small groups of chondrocytes and a smooth matrix.
- Appears bluish-white and glassy, with limited capacity for repair after injury.
- Locations include:
- Articulating surfaces of bones
- Costal cartilages connecting ribs to the sternum
- Cartilages of larynx, trachea, and bronchi
Fibrous Cartilage
- Dense and tough yet slightly flexible, with chondrocytes separated by thick collagen bundles arranged in parallel.
- Primarily found in:
- Intervertebral discs
- Knee and jaw joints
- Rim of bony sockets in hip and shoulder joints
- Pubic symphysis
Elastic Cartilage
- Characterized by the presence of elastic fibers within its matrix; this type is the least common.
- Locations include:
- Pinna of the ear
- Epiglottis
- Part of the tunica media in blood vessel walls
Summary of Learning Outcomes
- Understanding the composition and development of cartilage is vital for identifying its types and functions in the human body.
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Description
This quiz explores the essential aspects of cartilage, including its functions, composition, and types. It highlights the importance of cartilage in the human body, particularly in the head and neck. Additionally, it discusses issues related to the temporomandibular joint and the role of surrounding tissues in nutrient supply.
