Elastic cartilage provides flexibility in structures such as the ear and epiglottis.

• A. It is found where flexibility is needed, such as the ear and epiglottis
• B. It is the toughest cartilage, found in the intervertebral discs
• C. It covers most joint surfaces
• D. It forms the fibrous capsule of joints

Answer: (A)

Elastic cartilage is specialized to provide both support and bending flexibility. It contains a dense network of elastic fibers in its matrix, which allows structures to bend and then return to their shape. This is why elastic cartilage is well suited for the external ear and the epiglottis, where maintaining form while permitting movement is important. In contrast, fibrocartilage—found in intervertebral discs and the pubic symphysis—is tougher and resists compression, while hyaline cartilage covers most joint surfaces as a smooth, low-friction articular surface but lacks the extensive elastic fiber network. The fibrous capsule of joints is dense connective tissue, not cartilage.