Joints are classified according to the
Multiple Choice
size of the joint
shape of the joint
structure of the joint.
type of fluid in the joint
bones that are united at the joint
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is structure of the joint.
Explanation:
Joints, also known as articulations, are the points where two or more bones meet. They are classified in multiple ways, depending on different criteria. The primary classification of joints is based on their structure and function.
- Structural Classification: This classification focuses on the material that binds the bones together and the presence or absence of a joint cavity. The three main structural categories are:
- Fibrous Joints: These joints are connected by dense connective tissue, and they typically do not have a joint cavity. Examples include sutures in the skull, syndesmoses (found between some bones of the lower leg), and gomphoses (such as the attachment of teeth to their sockets).
- Cartilaginous Joints: In these joints, the bones are connected by cartilage. There are no joint cavities here either. Examples include synchondroses (such as the epiphyseal plates in growing children) and symphyses (such as the pubic symphysis).
- Synovial Joints: These joints have a joint cavity filled with synovial fluid, allowing for a high range of movement. They include most of the joints in the body, such as the knee, elbow, and shoulder. They are classified further based on the type of movement they allow (e.g., hinge, ball-and-socket).
- Functional Classification: Joints can also be classified based on the degree of movement they allow:
- Synarthroses: Immovable joints (e.g., sutures in the skull).
- Amphiarthroses: Slightly movable joints (e.g., intervertebral joints).
- Diarthroses: Freely movable joints (e.g., the knee, hip).
The type of fluid in the joint is a characteristic of synovial joints but is not a classification criterion for joints. Similarly, the bones that are united at the joint are not a major factor in how joints are classified, as classification is more concerned with the structure and the type of movement allowed.
Thus, the structure of the joint is the correct and primary way to classify joints.