Which part of the musculoskeletal system includes cartilage?

The musculoskeletal system is an intricate framework that encompasses various structures including muscles, bones, and cartilage. Cartilage is a resilient and flexible connective tissue that is a crucial component of this system. It serves several important functions such as providing support, allowing for smooth movements at joints, and reducing friction between bones.

In the musculoskeletal context, cartilage is found in areas such as the joints (articular cartilage), the rib cage (costal cartilage), the nose, the ears, and at the ends of long bones. By including cartilage along with muscles and bones, this option appropriately reflects the comprehensive nature of the musculoskeletal system, which works as an integrated entity to facilitate movement and maintain posture.

Muscles and ligaments are important parts of the musculoskeletal system, but they do not include cartilage, which is why the alternatives that only mention bones or focus solely on muscles and ligaments do not provide a complete view of the system’s components. Moreover, options that include tendons and nerves also overlook the significant role that cartilage plays. Thus, the inclusion of cartilage along with muscles and bones accurately represents this vital aspect of the musculoskeletal system.