The flexibility of the external ear is primarily due to the presence of:
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Correct answer: Elastic fibers in the elastic cartilage
While proteoglycans like aggrecan provide compression resistance, the ability of the ear to be folded and return to its original shape is a direct result of the elastic fibers in the underlying cartilage.
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More Elastic Cartilage questions
- Which component of the elastic cartilage matrix provides resistance to compressive forces?
- Isogenous groups in elastic cartilage are:
- Elastic cartilage is characterized by which type of collagen?
- Which of the following is NOT a location for elastic cartilage?
- In a laboratory, a scientist uses an enzyme to digest elastin in a sample of elastic cartilage. What is the most likely physical result?
- The nutritional needs of chondrocytes in the center of a piece of elastic cartilage are met through: