Final answer:
The second costal cartilage is palpable at the sternal angle, an important anatomical landmark where the manubrium and sternum body join.
Step-by-step explanation:
The second costal cartilage can be located by palpating the sternal angle. This anatomical landmark is the junction where the manubrium and the body of the sternum meet and it forms a palpable ridge known as the sternal angle or the angle of Louis. The first rib is typically obscured by the clavicle, making the second rib the highest rib that can be palpated directly. Therefore, the sternal angle is an important anatomical landmark for the identification and counting of the lower ribs.
The second rib attaches to the sternum at the sternal angle, which is the junction between the manubrium and body of the sternum. Since the first rib is hidden behind the clavicle, the second rib is the highest rib that can be identified by palpation. Therefore, to locate the second costal cartilage, you can palpate the sternal angle.