Ends of bones in a synovial joint are covered with which type of tissue to prevent friction?

Ends of bones in a synovial joint are covered with which type of tissue to prevent friction?

• A. Hyaline cartilage
• B. Fibrocartilage
• C. Periosteum
• D. Ligaments

Answer: (A)

In a synovial joint, the ends of the bones are coated with a smooth, slick tissue that creates a low-friction surface and helps distribute loads across the joint. This tissue is hyaline cartilage, referred to as articular cartilage when it lines joint surfaces. Its water-rich matrix and collagen allow bones to slide against each other with minimal friction and good shock absorption. Other tissues serve different roles: fibrocartilage is tougher and found in discs and menisci for extra support, periosteum covers the bone’s outer surface, and ligaments connect bones to bones for stability.

In a synovial joint, the ends of the bones are coated with a smooth, slick tissue that creates a low-friction surface and helps distribute loads across the joint. This tissue is hyaline cartilage, referred to as articular cartilage when it lines joint surfaces. Its water-rich matrix and collagen allow bones to slide against each other with minimal friction and good shock absorption. Other tissues serve different roles: fibrocartilage is tougher and found in discs and menisci for extra support, periosteum covers the bone’s outer surface, and ligaments connect bones to bones for stability.