Question

Cartilaginous joint is a joint between

• A. Skull bones
• B. Vertebrae
• C. Phalanges
• D. Elbow

Hint:

Remember the three main structural classifications of joints: fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial. Think of examples for each to solidify the concept: skull sutures (fibrous, immovable), intervertebral discs (cartilaginous, slightly movable), and knee/elbow joints (synovial, freely movable).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

What is a Cartilaginous Joint?

A cartilaginous joint is a type of joint where the bones are connected by cartilage, rather than by fibrous tissue or a synovial membrane. These joints allow for limited movement and provide stability and flexibility. Cartilaginous joints are found in areas where some movement is needed, but not as much as in synovial joints.

Understanding the Options

Let’s examine each option to see where cartilaginous joints are found:

1. Skull Bones

The skull bones are joined by sutures, which are fibrous joints, not cartilaginous. Sutures are immovable joints that provide protection to the brain. Since skull bones are connected by fibrous tissue, this option is incorrect for cartilaginous joints.

2. Vertebrae

The vertebrae in the spine are connected by cartilaginous joints. These joints, known as intervertebral discs, are made of fibrocartilage, which allows limited movement and helps absorb shock during movement. This makes vertebrae the correct answer for cartilaginous joints.

3. Phalanges

The phalanges are the bones of the fingers and toes, which are connected by synovial joints (hinge joints). These joints allow significant movement, making this option incorrect for cartilaginous joints.

4. Elbow

The elbow joint is a synovial joint, specifically a hinge joint, that allows for a wide range of motion. Synovial joints are characterized by a fluid-filled cavity that provides flexibility and movement. Since the elbow is a synovial joint, this option is not related to cartilaginous joints.

Why Vertebrae is the Correct Answer

Cartilaginous joints, like the ones found between the vertebrae, provide some movement while maintaining the stability of the structure. The intervertebral discs between the vertebrae are examples of cartilaginous joints, allowing for limited movement and acting as cushions to absorb pressure and shocks. This makes vertebrae the correct choice for cartilaginous joints.

Why Not the Other Options?

• Skull Bones: The skull bones are connected by sutures, a type of fibrous joint, not a cartilaginous joint.
• Phalanges: The phalanges are connected by synovial joints, not cartilaginous joints.
• Elbow: The elbow is a synovial hinge joint, not a cartilaginous joint.

A Simple Way to Remember

Here’s a beginner-friendly analogy:

• Cartilaginous Joints: Think of them as the "shock absorbers" in your body, like the discs in your spine.
• Synovial Joints: These are like the "hinges" in your body, allowing you to move freely, like your elbow and knee.
• Fibrous Joints: These are like the "seals" in your body, where bones are tightly connected, like in the skull.

Final Answer

The correct answer is Vertebrae, where cartilaginous joints (intervertebral discs) are found between the vertebrae, allowing limited movement.