Final answer:
Fibrocartilage contains dense collagen fibers and a tough matrix, providing both tensile strength and the ability to withstand compressive forces. These properties make it ideal for areas in the body that endure heavy pressure and require strong support, such as the intervertebral discs and knee menisci.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fibrocartilage is a specialized type of cartilage found in areas within the body that require both strong support and the capacity to withstand heavy pressure. The unique composition of fibrocartilage, which includes collagen fibers, gives it a high tensile strength as well as the ability to absorb compressive forces. This makes it an ideal material for places where bones meet and need to move against each other while still bearing weight, such as at the intervertebral discs in the spine and at the menisci of the knee.
Collagen fibers within fibrocartilage are densely packed and aligned in a manner that resists tensile (stretching) forces, while the ground substance (or matrix) of the cartilage can endure compressive (squeezing) forces. This structure provides durability and allows fibrocartilage to serve as a shock absorber in joints, where it helps to protect the bones from stress and damages that might occur due to impact or pressure. Moreover, fibrocartilage doesn't have as much of a blood supply or nerve endings as other types of tissue, which is why it can be found in areas that are subject to frequent wear and tear, without resulting in constant pain or too much damage to the tissue.
Fibrocartilage is found in areas requiring strong support and pressure resistance due to its collagen fibers giving it tensile strength and its matrix allowing it to absorb compressive forces. This structure is vital for its role as a cushion and protector in heavily burdened joints like the spine and knee.