Question

The ____________ ______________ resists wear and minimizes friction when it is compressed as the joint moves.

a) Lubrication layer
b) Kinetic barrier
c) Cartilage surface
d) Hydrogen bond

Answer 1

The articular cartilage and synovial fluid minimize friction and wear in a synovial joint. The correct answer is option c).

Step-by-step explanation:

Friction between the bones at a synovial joint is prevented by the presence of the articular cartilage, a thin layer of hyaline cartilage that covers the entire articulating surface of each bone. The articular cartilage acts like a Teflon coating over the bone surface, allowing the articulating bones to move smoothly against each other without damaging the underlying bone tissue.

The inner surface of the articular capsule is lined with the synovial membrane, which secretes synovial fluid. This thick, slimy fluid provides lubrication to further reduce friction between the bones of the joint and nourishes the articular cartilage. In addition, the articular cartilage functions as a shock absorber and helps to protect the ends of the bones.