Which type of cartilage predominantly covers the articular surfaces within the knee joint?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option C
The articular surfaces within the knee joint are predominantly covered by hyaline cartilage. This type of cartilage is also known as articular cartilage and is specialized to provide a smooth, low-friction surface for joint movement while distributing loads to underlying bone.
Key points:
- Hyaline cartilage is a type of glass-like, translucent cartilage found on the ends of long bones.
- It has a high content of type II collagen and proteoglycans, which provide strength and elasticity.
- Its smooth surface helps to reduce friction during movements and acts as a shock absorber.
- Unlike fibrocartilage, which is found in structures like the menisci and intervertebral discs, hyaline cartilage does not contain significant amounts of type I collagen.
- Elastic cartilage, found in the ear and epiglottis, contains elastic fibers and is more flexible but is not involved in joint surfaces.
- Calcified cartilage is a zone located beneath the hyaline cartilage, anchoring it to bone but does not cover the articular surfaces.
Therefore, the correct answer is Hyaline cartilage.
Reference: Gray’s Anatomy, 42nd Edition, Section on Joints, Chapter on Knee Joint, p. 1105
Key points:
- Hyaline cartilage is a type of glass-like, translucent cartilage found on the ends of long bones.
- It has a high content of type II collagen and proteoglycans, which provide strength and elasticity.
- Its smooth surface helps to reduce friction during movements and acts as a shock absorber.
- Unlike fibrocartilage, which is found in structures like the menisci and intervertebral discs, hyaline cartilage does not contain significant amounts of type I collagen.
- Elastic cartilage, found in the ear and epiglottis, contains elastic fibers and is more flexible but is not involved in joint surfaces.
- Calcified cartilage is a zone located beneath the hyaline cartilage, anchoring it to bone but does not cover the articular surfaces.
Therefore, the correct answer is Hyaline cartilage.
Reference: Gray’s Anatomy, 42nd Edition, Section on Joints, Chapter on Knee Joint, p. 1105
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