Question

Which among the following is the strongest cartilage?
A. Hyaline cartilage
B. Elastic cartilage
C. White fibrocartilage
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Cartilage is a type of tissue with resilient, elastic, and smooth properties. They form rubber-like padding at the ends of joints and long bones. They provide protection to bones. A mixture of cartilaginous and fibrous tissue forms the strongest cartilage.

Complete answer:
There are different cartilage types based on the function they are required to perform. They form structural components of the rib cage, nose, ear, vertebral discs, etc. The cartilage tissues are not as hard as bone but much stiffer and flexible than the muscle tissues. Glycosaminoglycans, collagen fibers, proteoglycans, and elastin form the matrix of cartilage tissues.
The hyaline cartilage is translucent cartilage having a glass-like surface. They are present on many joint surfaces and are commonly found in ribs, larynx, trachea, and nose. They have a considerable amount of collagen and have first consistency.
Elastic cartilage also known as yellow cartilage is present in the outer ear, epiglottis, and Eustachian tube. It consists of networks of elastic fibers and collagen type II fibers. Elastin is the principal protein in elastic cartilage tissues.
The white fibrocartilage is made of a mixture of cartilaginous tissue and white fibrous tissue. They are inflexible and tough cartilage tissue due to white fibrous tissue. The elasticity of these cartilage tissues is due to cartilaginous tissue. It is the only cartilage tissue that consists of type I collagen in addition to type II collagen. It is the strongest of all cartilage. It is present in pubic symphysis, intervertebral discs, shoulder joints, etc.

Therefore, option C) is the right answer.

Note: The white fibrocartilage is known to play an important role in the repair of hyaline cartilage. It is a tough and dense fibrous material and helps fill in the torn portion of cartilage. It is not an ideal replacement for smooth and glossy cartilage but provides support and protection.