EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -The periosteum covers the entire outer surface except where the epiphyses meet other bones to form joints ([link]). In this region, the epiphyses are covered with articular cartilage, a thin layer of cartilage that reduces friction and acts as a shock absorber.

Detailed explanation-2: -Articular cartilage is found at the end of long bones, specifically in the synovial joints. A synovial joint is one in which the joints are surrounded by a synovial membrane that is filled with the synovial fluid. In addition, the articulating surfaces of the bones are covered with articular cartilage.

Detailed explanation-3: -Answer and Explanation: The articular cartilage of a typical long bone is composed of hyaline cartilage. This type of cartilage functions as a shock absorber for the joint, and also prevents friction from occurring between the ends of the bones in the joint, allowing for smooth movement.

Detailed explanation-4: -Articular cartilage is hyaline cartilage and is 2 to 4 mm thick. Unlike most tissues, articular cartilage does not have blood vessels, nerves, or lymphatics. It is composed of a dense extracellular matrix (ECM) with a sparse distribution of highly specialized cells called chondrocytes.

Detailed explanation-5: –The epiphyses are covered by a thin layer of compact tissue. Their interior contains spongy bones and red marrow. On its outer surface, the articular portion of the epiphysis is coated with hyaline cartilage.