Final answer:
Pressure and tension have little effect on the growth of cartilage, as it grows by cellular enlargement and matrix deposition, serving critical functions such as shock absorption and enabling smooth joint movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pressure and tension have little effect on the growth of cartilage. Unlike other structures such as bones that can be influenced by tension and pressure, cartilage grows primarily by cellular enlargement and matrix deposition. This process allows cartilage to absorb shock and provide a smooth surface for joint movement. For instance, the articular cartilage located in joints like the knee or hip is essential for absorbing impact and allowing fluid movement between bones. In contrast, structures such as the frontomaxillary suture, the alveolus, and the mandible are part of the skeletal system in which bone development and growth are more directly impacted by mechanical forces.