🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

Which of the following components is a characteristic feature of elastic cartilage?

A Type I collagen fibers
B High concentration of proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid
C Abundant elastic fibers within the matrix
D Perichondrium that lacks blood vessels

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Elastic cartilage is distinguished by a matrix rich in elastic fibers, which provide flexibility and resilience. This is in contrast to hyaline cartilage (Type II collagen) or fibrocartilage (Type I collagen). The perichondrium typically contains blood vessels.

💡 Why is C) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "Which of the following components is a characteristic feature of elastic cartilage?" is Option C: Abundant elastic fibers within the matrix.

The other options — A) Type I collagen fibers, B) High concentration of proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid, D) Perichondrium that lacks blood vessels — are incorrect for this USMLE Exam Prep question. As explained above: Elastic cartilage is distinguished by a matrix rich in elastic fibers, which provide flexibility and resilience. This is in contrast to hyaline cartilage (Type II collagen) or fibrocartilage (Type I …

📚 About This USMLE Exam Prep Practice Question

This 1-level USMLE Exam Prep question from the Step 1 – Basic Sciences topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free USMLE Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

Related USMLE Exam Prep Questions