Biological Systems MCAT Practice Exam

What is the primary function of articular cartilage in joints?

1. To connect ligaments

2. To protect against bone friction

3. To store synovial fluid

4. To enhance blood supply

The correct answer is: To protect against bone friction

The primary function of articular cartilage in joints is to protect against bone friction. This specialized type of hyaline cartilage covers the surfaces of bones within synovial joints, providing a smooth, lubricated surface for articulation. This smooth surface minimizes friction during movement, allowing for a greater range of motion and reducing wear and tear on the underlying bone. Articular cartilage also serves to distribute forces evenly across the joint surfaces when weight is applied, helping to absorb shock. This protective function is crucial for maintaining joint health and preventing conditions such as osteoarthritis, where the cartilage wears down and leads to increased friction and pain. Other options relate to different functions that are not directly associated with articular cartilage. For instance, while ligaments connect bones to one another, they do not provide the cushioning and smoothness that articular cartilage does. Synovial fluid is indeed stored in the joint cavity but is contained in the synovial membrane, rather than within the cartilage itself. Enhancing blood supply is primarily not a role of articular cartilage because it is avascular, meaning it does not have its own blood supply, which is a characteristic that sets it apart from other types of connective tissue.