Final answer:
Joints in the human body are classified as fibrous, cartilaginous, or synovial, based on the connective material and presence of a joint cavity. Fibrous joints allow minimal movement, cartilaginous joints allow more movement, and synovial joints permit a wide range of movements including angular and rotational.
Step-by-step explanation:
The structural classification of joints in the human body categorizes them into fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial joints. Fibrous joints are where the bones are united by dense fibrous connective tissue and usually allow for minimal to no movement. The joints in the skull, known as sutures, are an example of fibrous joints. Cartilaginous joints involve bones that are connected by cartilage, allowing for more movement than fibrous joints but less than synovial joints. The joints between the ribs and breastbone or the symphysis pubis are cartilaginous joints.
Synovial joints are characterized by a joint cavity filled with synovial fluid, which allows for a wide range of movement. These joints can perform angular movements, such as bending and straightening, as well as rotational movements around the longitudinal axis of the bones. Examples of synovial joints include the knee, hip, and shoulder joints, which are crucial for locomotion and other movements.