Final answer:
Synovial joints enable high mobility and are surrounded by an articular capsule containing synovial fluid, which lubricates and maintains the joint. The synovial membrane produces the fluid, nourishes cartilage, and removes debris. Damaged or arthritic joints can be replaced with artificial ones made from materials such as metals or plastic.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Synovial Joints and Synovial Fluid
Synovial joints are a type of joint that provides high mobility between the bones they connect. These joints are characterized by a joint cavity filled with synovial fluid, which is produced by the synovial membrane that lines the inner surface of the joint cavity. The synovial fluid serves multiple critical functions; it acts as a lubricant to reduce friction between the articulating bone surfaces, it nourishes the articular cartilage, and it assists in removing cell debris produced from normal wear and tear within the joint.
The articular capsule is a fibrous connective tissue that surrounds the joint cavity of a synovial joint. Inside this capsule, the articulating surfaces of the bones are covered by a thin layer of hyaline cartilage known as articular cartilage. Unlike cartilaginous joints, the articular cartilages of a synovial joint are not continuous with each other, but rather, they provide a smooth, Teflon-like coating to allow bones to move against each other without damage. Ligaments help support the joint by holding the bones together and resisting excessive or abnormal motions.
Overall, the structure of synovial joints permits a wide range of movements, making these joints functionally classified as diarthroses. Examples of synovial joints include the knees, elbows, and shoulders. When these joints are damaged or become arthritic, they may be replaced by artificial components made of materials like stainless steel, titanium, or polyethylene, which also possess low coefficients of friction.