Question

Which survival need shortage would most affect articular cartilage's ability to rebound after joint compression, and why does it have this effect?

A) Water, since it makes up to 80% of cartilage's content and helps cushion articular bone surfaces.
B) Oxygen, since cartilage cells receive this gas directly from nearby blood vessels.
C) Nutrients, since the majority of cartilage is made out of polysaccharide glycosaminoglycans (GAGs).
D) Normal body temperature, since higher temperatures would slow down necessary biochemical reactions.

Answer 1

A shortage of water greatly impacts articular cartilage's ability to recover after compression due to its high water content that is crucial for shock absorption. The correct option is A) Water since it makes up to 80% of cartilage's content and helps cushion articular bone surfaces.

Step-by-step explanation:

The shortage of water would most affect articular cartilage's ability to rebound after joint compression. Articular cartilage is composed of a high percentage of water, up to 80%, which is essential for its shock absorption function and for cushioning the articulations of bones.

Since cartilage is avascular, the diffusion of nutrients is already slow, but it's the water content that provides the cartilage with its ability to bounce back after being compressed. Lack of adequate water can lead to decreased elasticity and compromised cartilage function. The correct option is A) Water since it makes up to 80% of cartilage's content and helps cushion articular bone surfaces.