The type of cartilage growth characterized by adding new layers of cartilage to the surface is
(a) Interstitial growth
(b) Appositional growth
(c) Intramembranous growth
(d) Longitudinal growth.

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the types of cartilage growth. There are two main types: interstitial growth and appositional growth.

Step 2: Interstitial growth occurs from within the cartilage, where chondrocytes divide and secrete new matrix, expanding the cartilage internally.

Step 3: Appositional growth involves the addition of new layers of cartilage on the surface, where new chondroblasts form from the perichondrium and add matrix externally.

Step 4: Intramembranous growth refers to bone formation, not cartilage growth, so it is not applicable here.

Step 5: Longitudinal growth typically refers to bone lengthening, especially in long bones, and is not a term used for cartilage growth types.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Appositional Growth

Appositional growth refers to the process where new layers of cartilage are added to the surface by chondroblasts in the perichondrium. This type of growth increases the thickness of the cartilage and is essential for shaping and strengthening cartilage structures.

Interstitial Growth

Interstitial growth occurs when chondrocytes within the cartilage divide and secrete new matrix, expanding the cartilage from within. This process increases the length or volume of cartilage but does not add layers to the surface.

Types of Cartilage Growth

Cartilage grows mainly through two mechanisms: appositional and interstitial growth. Understanding these types helps differentiate how cartilage develops and repairs, with appositional growth adding layers externally and interstitial growth expanding internally.

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