Which feature best characterizes elastic cartilage?

Which feature best characterizes elastic cartilage?

• A. Presence Of Elastic Fibers
• B. Lack Of Perichondrium
• C. Dense Type II Collagen
• D. Rigid And Inflexible

Answer: (A)

Elastic cartilage is distinguished by its network of elastic fibers in the extracellular matrix, which gives the tissue great flexibility and the ability to bend and rebound. This elasticity explains why structures like the external ear and the epiglottis can bend without tearing. The elastic fibers set it apart from other cartilages that rely mainly on collagen; it does contain type II collagen, but the key feature is the elastic fiber network. It also has a perichondrium, so a lack of perichondrium is not characteristic, and it is not rigid and inflexible.

Elastic cartilage is distinguished by its network of elastic fibers in the extracellular matrix, which gives the tissue great flexibility and the ability to bend and rebound. This elasticity explains why structures like the external ear and the epiglottis can bend without tearing. The elastic fibers set it apart from other cartilages that rely mainly on collagen; it does contain type II collagen, but the key feature is the elastic fiber network. It also has a perichondrium, so a lack of perichondrium is not characteristic, and it is not rigid and inflexible.