Final answer:
Between yellow elastic fibers in connective tissues, a matrix is found which provides support and medium for cells. Elastic fibers are made of elastin, enabling tissues to regain their shape after stretching, while collagen and reticular fibers offer strength and support.
Step-by-step explanation:
Between yellow elastic fibers, you can find a substance known as matrix, which fills the space within connective tissue. Elastic fibers, containing the protein elastin, are critical components of various tissues, including skin and elastic ligaments of the vertebral column. These fibers provide the tissue with the flexibility and ability to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed.
In tissues such as loose connective tissue or areolar tissue, the matrix is a semi-fluid ground substance that supports and provides a medium for the exchange of nutrients and waste for the cells within the tissue. Besides elastin, connective tissue may contain other types of fibers such as collagen fibers, which add strength, and reticular fibers, which form a network providing support.
Dense connective tissue, another type of connective tissue, contains a higher amount of collagen fibers, therefore offering greater resistance to stretching. The tissue is designed to maintain structure and support while still allowing for flexibility due to the presence of elastin fibers, particularly notable in ligaments within the vertebral column and the vocal folds.