Activity 2B: Connective Tissues

❀ Hyaline Cartilage – consists of a dense network of collagen fibers embedded in a firm, gel-like ground substance; provides smooth surfaces for joint movement, flexibility, and support. It also plays a critical role in the growth of long bones.

❀ Elastic Cartilage – contains more elastic fibers, which give it greater flexibility and resilience; maintains the shape of structures while allowing flexibility

❀ Areolar Tissue – a loose connective tissue with a loosely organized, fibrous network containing collagen, elastic, and reticular fibers; support, strength, and elasticity to surrounding tissues

❀ Fibrocartilage – a tough, very strong type of cartilage that has a dense arrangement of collagen fibers; strong support and handles heavy pressure and acts as a shock absorber and helps prevent bone-to-bone contact.