Joints quiz

What is the definition of a joint in the human body?

Joints are any place where adjacent bones or bone and cartilage come together to form a connection.

What is the one bone in the human body that is not connected to any other bones at a joint?

The hyoid bone in the neck.

Name the three structural classifications of joints.

Fibrous, Cartilaginous, and Synovial.

How are diarthrosis joints further categorized, and provide an example for each category.

• Uniaxial – one plane of motion (e.g., elbow)
• Biaxial – two planes of motion (e.g., knuckle)
• Multiaxial – three or more planes of motion (e.g., shoulder)

What are the three functional classifications of joints, and how do they differ in terms of movement?

• Synarthrosis – immobile or nearly immobile (doesn't move), e.g., joints in the skull.

• Amphiarthrosis – limited movement, e.g., joints between two vertebrae.

• Diarthrosis – moves freely, e.g., hip and all other synovial joints.

Describe the characteristics of fibrous cartilage versus hyaline cartilage, and provide examples of where each is found.

• Fibrous cartilage: Denser, stronger, thicker. Found in interosseous membranes, sutures in the brain, and discs between vertebrae.
• Hyaline cartilage: Smoother (less friction), less dense, more flexible. Found at the ends of long bones like the nose and ears, and also forms growth plates.

What is unique about synovial joints regarding their structure and the fluid they contain?

Synovial joints have a joint cavity filled with synovial fluid, which is thick and lubricates the joint. They are the most common type of joint.

Explain the relationship between range of motion and joint stability.

As range of motion increases, joint stability decreases.

Differentiate between a ligament and a tendon based on what they attach to.

• Ligament: Attaches bone to bone or bone to cartilage.
• Tendon: Attaches bone to muscle.