Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Why is cartilage slow to heal?
A
Cartilage is constantly being replaced by bone tissue.
B
Cartilage is composed mainly of inorganic materials.
C
Cartilage lacks a direct blood supply.
D
Cartilage cells are highly active and rapidly divide.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of cartilage: Cartilage is a type of connective tissue that is more flexible than bone. It is composed of chondrocytes (cartilage cells) embedded in a matrix of collagen fibers and proteoglycans.
Recognize the role of blood supply in tissue healing: Blood supply is crucial for delivering nutrients and oxygen to tissues, which are necessary for cell repair and regeneration.
Identify the characteristics of cartilage: Unlike other tissues, cartilage lacks a direct blood supply. Instead, it receives nutrients through diffusion from surrounding tissues, which is a slower process.
Consider the implications of limited blood supply: The absence of direct blood vessels means that cartilage has a reduced capacity to heal quickly compared to tissues with abundant blood supply.
Conclude why cartilage is slow to heal: Due to the lack of direct blood supply, cartilage cells receive nutrients and oxygen less efficiently, leading to slower repair and regeneration processes.