Which cartilage contains elastic fibers and is located in the external ear and epiglottis?

• A. Elastic cartilage
• B. Hyaline cartilage
• C. Fibrocartilage
• D. Articular cartilage

Answer: (A)

Elastic cartilage is defined by its matrix enriched with elastic fibers, which give it the ability to bend and return to its shape. That flexibility is ideal for structures that need to be supportive yet pliable, like the external ear and the epiglottis. The presence of elastic fibers distinguishes it from other cartilages: hyaline cartilage has a smooth, glassy matrix with mainly collagen fibers and provides cushioning and support in joints and respiratory structures; fibrocartilage contains thick bundles of collagen for heavy load bearing, found in intervertebral discs and the pubic symphysis; articular cartilage is simply the hyaline cartilage covering the ends of bones in joints. So the cartilage described—with elastic fibers and located in the external ear and epiglottis—fits elastic cartilage.