Final answer:
The pubic symphysis of a young adult typically shows a relatively smooth surface with a narrow gap filled with fibrocartilage and well-defined edges, reflecting minimal wear. Age-related changes include more irregular surfaces with ridges and depressions.
Step-by-step explanation:
An indicator of a young adult when looking at the pubic symphysis involves examining the morphological changes that occur with age. The pubic symphysis is a joint formed by the articulation between the pubic bodies of the right and left hip bones. In young adults, the appearance of the pubic symphysis is characterized by a relatively smooth surface with few bony ridges or outgrowths, and the edges of the symphysis tend to be well-defined and sharp, reflecting minimal wear. Additionally, the presence of a narrow gap between the bones, which is filled with fibrocartilage, is also indicative of a younger individual. With age, the symphyseal surface tends to become more irregular, with the development of bony ridges and depressions. Moreover, age-related osteological markers such as the condition of the iliac auricular surface and the degree of cranial suture closure can also provide valuable information when estimating the age of skeletal remains.