Question

The intercellular matrix is “solid" while cartilage is pliable due to the presence of ?
A. Chondroitin salt
B. Ammonium salt
C. Magnesium salt
D. Metalloid salt

Answer 1

Hint: The intercellular matrix is a material that is secreted by the cells that will fill up space between cells in a tissue and also protect the cells and hold each cell together. The cartilage is a type of connective tissue which is tough but flexible. It is present in many areas of the body including joints between bones, ears, nose, etc.

Complete answer:
Cartilage is made up of some specialized cells known as chondrocytes.
These chondrocytes produce a large amount of extracellular matrix which is made up of elastin, collagen fibers, and proteoglycan.
The cartilage does not have the presence of blood vessels which makes it grow and repair very slowly compared to the other tissues of the body.
The intercellular matrix is solid while cartilage is pliable due to the presence of chondroitin salt.
Chondroitin is a sulfate salt that provides resistance to the compression and is responsible for bending or flexibility.
> Ammonium salt-It helps to maintain the pH of the extracellular fluid thereby providing a suitable environment for the components of the extracellular fluid.
> Magnesium salts- It increases the bone density and thereby decreases the chances of being broken and bone erosion.
> Metalloid salt- It includes the salts of sodium and potassium which provides strength to body fluid.

Note: There is a difference between bone and cartilage. Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue whereas bone is tough and not flexible. And cartilage does not have a vascular system unlike bone. The cartilage appears like a rubber band at the end of the bone whose main function is to protect the ends of long bones.