What distinguishes elastic cartilage from other types of cartilage?

Elastic cartilage is distinguished from other types of cartilage primarily by the presence of a perichondrium, which is a layer of dense connective tissue that surrounds cartilage in particular regions. The perichondrium contains blood vessels and nerves and contributes to the growth and repair processes of cartilage tissue.

Unlike hyaline cartilage, which also has a perichondrium but appears more glassy and is found in places like the articular surfaces of joints, elastic cartilage is characterized by its flexibility and resilience due to the abundance of elastic fibers in its matrix. This structure allows elastic cartilage to maintain its shape after deformation, making it ideal for locations requiring both rigidity and flexibility, such as the ear and epiglottis.

While the other options might reference certain features of cartilage, they do not specifically define elastic cartilage. For example, elastic cartilage has a gel-like matrix rather than a solid one, it contains chondrocytes, and while it may not ossify as readily as some other tissues, this is not a definitive characteristic that sets it apart. The defining feature of elastic cartilage lies in its surrounding perichondrium, which supports its structural integrity and functionality in flexible regions of the body.