Final answer:
The ball-and-socket joint provides the greatest degree of movement or softness, especially in the shoulder and hip joints, allowing for a wide range of motion. These contrasts with gliding joints, which have more limited movements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the types of synovial joints, the ball-and-socket joint allows for the greatest degree of movement or softness, characterized by its ability to move in multiple axes. Specifically, the shoulder and hip joints are examples of ball-and-socket joints and provide a wide range of movement. This contrasts with gliding movements seen in joints such as the carpal and tarsal bones, which afford only small, sliding or twisting motions and consequently less movement and softness.
It's important to note that the more mobile a joint, the less stable it may be due to the increased range of motion. Thus, while ball-and-socket joints offer considerable flexibility enabling activities such as kicking or raising arms, they are less stable than more restrictive joints like those in the wrist or ankle. In sum, the ball-and-socket synovial joint structure enables a tremendous level of mobility and a variety of body movements critical for daily activities.