True statement about fibrous cartilage is
**Question:** True statement about fibrous cartilage is
A. Fibrous cartilage is composed of collagen fibers arranged in a loose, disorganized manner.
B. Fibrous cartilage contains chondrocytes in lacunae.
C. Fibrous cartilage has a high water content and is elastic.
D. Fibrous cartilage is mainly found in the nose, trachea, and larynx.
**Correct Answer:**
A. Fibrous cartilage is composed of collagen fibers arranged in a loose, disorganized manner.
**Core Concept:**
Fibrous cartilage is a type of cartilage that is primarily composed of collagen fibers arranged in a loose, disorganized manner. These fibers form a network that provides strength and support to the surrounding structures without restricting their movement, making fibrous cartilage suitable for areas that require rigidity but also need some degree of flexibility.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
Fibrous cartilage is characterized by its collagen fibers, which are arranged in a loose, disorganized manner. This arrangement allows for flexibility and movement while still providing support. The fibers do not form a tight, organized network like in elastic and hyaline cartilage, making fibrous cartilage less suitable for areas requiring high elasticity.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
B. Fibrous cartilage contains chondrocytes in lacunae: While chondrocytes are present in fibrous cartilage, the focus should be on the collagen fibers' arrangement, not the presence of chondrocytes.
C. Fibrous cartilage has a high water content and is elastic: This statement is incorrect as fibrous cartilage is primarily characterized by its collagen fibers' arrangement, not its elasticity or water content.
D. Fibrous cartilage is mainly found in the nose, trachea, and larynx: While fibrous cartilage is indeed present in these structures, the question is focused on the structural characteristics of fibrous cartilage, not its distribution in the body.
**Clinical Pearls:**
Fibrous cartilage is found in various parts of the body, including the nose, trachea, larynx, and intervertebral discs. Its primary function is to provide support and rigidity, making it suitable for load-bearing structures where flexibility is not a primary requirement.