Which of the following tissues connects muscles to bones?.
A.
Nerves.
B.
Ligaments.
C.
Tendons.
D.
Cartilage.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. Tendons.
Explanation:
Tendons are specialized connective tissues that play a crucial role in the musculoskeletal system. Their primary function is to connect muscles to bones, facilitating movement and stability. Tendons are composed of dense regular connective tissue, which is rich in collagen fibers. These fibers are aligned parallel to the direction of muscle contraction, allowing tendons to efficiently transfer the force generated by muscle contraction to the bone.
When a muscle contracts, the force generated is transmitted through the tendon to the bone, resulting in movement of the skeletal system. For example, when you flex your bicep, the tendons of the bicep muscle pull on the bones of the forearm, causing the arm to bend at the elbow. This ability to connect muscles to bones is essential for all voluntary movements, from walking and running to grasping objects.
Ligaments are another type of connective tissue, but they have a different function. They connect bones to other bones at joints, providing stability and preventing excessive movements that could lead to injury. Unlike tendons, ligaments do not connect muscles to bones.
Cartilage is a flexible, rubbery tissue found in various parts of the body, including the joints, ears, and nose. It provides cushioning and support but does not connect muscles to bones. Cartilage helps reduce friction between bones and absorbs shock, which is particularly important in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
Nerves are not connective tissues; they are part of the nervous system and are responsible for transmitting electrical signals between the brain and different parts of the body. They play a crucial role in muscle activation and movement but are not involved in connecting muscles to bones.
In summary, tendons are the connective tissues responsible for linking muscles to bones, enabling the transfer of force and facilitating movement.