Final answer:
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) prevents the femur from translating too far anteriorly relative to the tibia by supporting the knee when it is flexed and weight-bearing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The knee ligament that prevents the femur from translating too far anteriorly is the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). It is an intracapsular ligament of the knee that extends from the posterior, superior surface of the tibia to the inner aspect of the medial condyle of the femur. The PCL is vital in preventing anterior displacement of the femur when the knee is flexed and weight-bearing. It is significantly stronger than the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). While the ACL resists hyperextension of the knee, it is the PCL that mainly prevents the anterior translation of the femur relative to the tibia.
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) prevents the femur from translating too far anteriorly in relation to the tibia. It is an intracapsular ligament of the knee that extends from the anterior, superior surface of the tibia to the inner aspect of the lateral condyle of the femur. The ACL resists hyperextension of the knee and provides stability to the joint.