- Cartilage type is determined by matrix and fiber components.
- Glassy, pink-staining, gel-like matrix comprises a ground substance of proteoglycan aggregates, chondronectin, and water.
- Sternal ends of the ribs, many articular surfaces, the tracheal rings, the larynx, and the nasal septum.
- Hyaline cartilage is also the skeletal precursor during development.
- At the articular surfaces, hyaline cartilage provides a smooth surface for free movement; elsewhere, such as in the nasal septum, it provides structural support.
- Auditory tubes, epiglottis, and external ear
- Elastic fibers provide flexibility with recoil; for example, when you bend your external ear, it moves easily, but snaps back into place when released.
- Tightly packed, thick bundles of type I and type II collagen fibers run in parallel.
- Intervertebral discs, the pubic symphysis, and the joint capsules
- Provides tensile strength and resistance to compression; its dense nature allows it to bear a weight, as in the intervertebral discs.