Which connective tissue cushions joints and keeps bone ends from rubbing?

• A. Tendon
• B. Adipose tissue
• C. Cartilage
• D. Ligament

Answer: (C)

Cartilage provides the cushioning and smooth surface needed for joints. In joints, articular cartilage coats the ends of bones, absorbing impact and allowing bones to glide together with minimal friction. This keeps the joint surfaces from rubbing directly against one another and helps prevent wear over time.

Other tissues serve different roles: tendons connect muscle to bone to transmit force for movement; ligaments connect bones to bones to stabilize joints; adipose tissue stores fat and provides general padding around tissues, but it does not form the smooth, protective surface between the bone ends.