S & M Systems: Synovial Joints

Question 1

What are the five synovial joints? Give an example for each joint.

Answer 1

BALL & SOCKET e.g. Hip, Shoulder 
HINGE e.g. Knee, Ankle, Elbow 
PIVOT e.g. Neck
GLIDING e.g. Hand vertebrate 
CONDYLOID e.g. Wrist

Question 2

What structures do all synovial joints have? [5]

Answer 2

• ARTICULAR CARTILAGE
• LIGAMENTS
• SYNOVIAL FLUID
• JOINT CAPSULE
• SYNOVIAL MEMBRANE

Question 3

What is SYNOVIAL FLUID and what is it’s function?

Answer 3

Lubricating liquid contained within the joint cavity.

Lubrication, reduces friction, eases movement

Question 4

What are LIGAMENTS?

Answer 4

A tough band of slightly elastic connective tissue.

Prevents dislocation, stabilises joint

Question 5

What is ARTICULAR CARTILAGE?

Answer 5

Smooth tissue which covers the surface of articulating bones

Reduces friction, Cushioning between bones, shock absorber

Question 6

What is the JOINT CAPSULE?

Answer 6

A fibrous sac with an inner synovial membrane

Strengthens joint, secrets synovial fluid

Question 7

What is the BURSA?

Answer 7

A closed, fluid-filled sac found where tendons rub over bones
Stops tendon and bones from rubbing, reduces friction, prevents injury