Which component of the elastic cartilage matrix provides resistance to compressive forces?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Proteoglycan-rich ground substance
The ground substance, rich in chondroitin sulfate and keratan sulfate, binds water and allows the cartilage to resist compression. The fibers (collagen and elastin) primarily handle tensile and elastic forces.
Keep practicing
More Elastic Cartilage questions
- 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:
- Which of the following describes the primary structural difference between elastic cartilage and hyaline cartilage?