Which tissue cushions joints and reduces friction between bone surfaces?

• A. Tendons
• B. Cartilage
• C. Ligaments
• D. Marrow

Answer: (B)

Cartilage provides the smooth, low-friction surface that cushions joints. In synovial joints, articular cartilage covers the ends of bones, allowing them to slide against each other with minimal resistance. Its flexible, resilient matrix absorbs shocks and distributes loads during movement, protecting bone from wear. This cushioning works with the joint’s synovial fluid to further reduce friction. The other tissues have different roles: tendons attach muscles to bones to enable movement, ligaments connect bones to stabilize joints, and marrow resides inside bone cavities to produce blood cells. So cartilage is the tissue specifically designed to cushion joints and lessen friction between bone surfaces.