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Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Ligaments are highly flexible. 2. Ligaments connect muscles and bones. 3. Ligaments contain very little matrix. Select the correct answer using the code given below : Code:
Explanation
Ligaments are a type of dense connective tissue characterized by high flexibility and great strength. They are composed of woven strands of protein fibers, primarily collagen and elastin, which allow them to be tough yet elastic. Histologically, ligaments contain very little matrix compared to other connective tissues, as they are densely packed with fibers. Regarding their anatomical function, ligaments connect bone to bone, providing stability and limiting passive movement between skeletal parts [1]. In contrast, tendons are the structures that connect muscles to bones to transmit force [1]. Therefore, statement 1 (flexibility) and statement 3 (little matrix) are correct, while statement 2 is incorrect because it describes the function of a tendon rather than a ligament. This distinction is fundamental in human anatomy and physiology.
Sources
- [1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3676159/