Final answer:
Hyaline cartilage is different from elastic or fibrocartilage because C) fibers are not normally visible. Option c is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hyaline cartilage is distinct from elastic or fibrocartilage primarily because fibers are not normally visible in hyaline cartilage. This characteristic sets it apart from elastic cartilage, which contains elastic fibers, and fibrocartilage, which contains collagen fibers. The absence of visible fibers in hyaline cartilage gives it a translucent, glassy appearance under a microscope.
The main component of hyaline cartilage is the extracellular matrix, which consists of a gel-like substance rich in proteoglycans and water. Unlike elastic cartilage, which contains elastic fibers providing flexibility, and fibrocartilage, which contains dense collagen fibers for strength, hyaline cartilage relies on a homogeneous matrix to maintain its structure.
The lack of visible fibers is due to the fine and evenly dispersed collagen fibers within the matrix, making them difficult to discern under regular microscopy. This feature allows hyaline cartilage to serve crucial functions, such as providing a smooth surface for joint movement and supporting respiratory structures like the trachea.
In addition to its fiber arrangement, hyaline cartilage is also characterized by its avascularity, meaning it lacks blood vessels. This property contributes to its limited capacity for self-repair, making injuries to hyaline cartilage challenging to heal. Overall, the unique composition of hyaline cartilage, devoid of visible fibers and with a finely dispersed matrix, distinguishes it from elastic and fibrocartilage in terms of structure and function.