What is elastic cartilage?

• A. Cartilage found in the pinna and larynx
• B. Cartilage found in synovial joints
• C. Cartilage found in intervertebral discs
• D. Cartilage found in knee joint capsule

Answer: (A)

Elastic cartilage is a type of cartilage that contains a dense network of elastic fibers in its matrix, giving it both strength and the ability to bend and return to its shape. This combination makes it ideal for structures that need support but also flexibility. The classic places you find elastic cartilage are the external ear (pinna) and parts of the larynx, especially the epiglottis. That’s why describing cartilage in the pinna and the larynx is the best fit.

In contrast, the cartilage that covers the joint surfaces in most synovial joints is hyaline cartilage—strong and smooth but not particularly elastic. Intervertebral discs are fibrocartilage, built for toughness and shock absorption rather than flexibility. The knee joint capsule itself isn’t defined by elastic cartilage.