Skeletal Anatomy: Synovial Joints

Question 1

What is the difference between an articulate cartilage and a hyaline cartilage?

Answer 1

An articular cartilage lacks a perichondrium, and the matrix contains more water than other cartilages

Question 2

What is the joint capsule?

Answer 2

Dense and fibrous, may be reinforced with various accessory ligaments and tendons

Question 3

What is the purpose of the synovial fluid?

Answer 3

Lubricates, cushions shocks, prevent abrasion, supports chondrocytes of articular cartilage

Question 4

How does the synovial fluid aid in lubrication?

Answer 4

Fluid is squeezed out of cartilage and into space between opposing surfaces when the articular cartilages are compressed during movement

Question 5

How does the synovial fluid support chondrocytes in articular cartilages?

Answer 5

Synovial fluid circulates continuously to provide nutrients and waste disposal for chondrocytes.

It circulates whenever joints move, compression and re-expansion of articular cartilages pump synovial fluid into and out of the cartilage matrix

Question 6

How does synovial fluid aid in cushioning shocks?

Answer 6

Cushion shocks in joints that are compressed, by distributing forces evenly across articular surfaces and outward to the joint capsule

Question 7

What are the components of synovial joints?

Answer 7

Articulate cartilage, joint capsule, synovial fluid