BIO105 Anatomy and Physiology 1 Exam 2 Version
3 | Questions with Correct Answers and Expert
Explanation for Each Question | Saint Paul’s School
of Nursing
1. Which type of joint is structurally classified by the presence of a synovial cavity and
dense irregular connective tissue of an articular capsule?
A. Fibrous joint
B. Synovial joint
C. Cartilaginous joint
D. Gomphosis
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Synovial joints are unique because they contain a space called
the synovial cavity between articulating bones. This cavity is surrounded by a
connective tissue capsule that attaches the bones together. Unlike fibrous or
cartilaginous joints, synovial joints allow for a significant range of movement known
as diarthrosis. An example of this joint type is the shoulder or the knee.
Understanding these structures is vital for nurses when assessing patients with
mobility issues or joint pain.
,2. In the functional classification of joints, what term describes a joint that is slightly
movable?
A. Amphiarthrosis
B. Synarthrosis
C. Diarthrosis
D. Suture
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Amphiarthrosis refers to a joint that allows a limited amount
of movement between bones. This functional category is contrasted with
synarthrosis, which is immovable, and diarthrosis, which is freely movable. The
pubic symphysis is a classic example of an amphiarthrotic joint that allows slight
shifting. These joints provide a balance between the stability needed for support
and the flexibility needed for physiological processes. Nurses must distinguish these
movement types to evaluate normal versus restricted patient mobility.
3. Which of the following is a primary function of articular cartilage in a synovial joint?
A. Secreting synovial fluid
B. Reducing friction and absorbing shock
C. Binding the joint to nearby muscles
,D. Acting as a primary blood supply for the bone
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Articular cartilage consists of hyaline cartilage that covers the
ends of bones within a synovial joint. Its main role is to provide a smooth, slippery
surface that reduces friction during movement. Additionally, it helps distribute
pressure and absorb mechanical shocks that occur during activities like walking or
jumping. Because it lacks its own blood supply, damage to this cartilage can lead to
chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. Assessing the integrity of this tissue is a key
part of orthopedic nursing care.
4. Synovial fluid is produced by the synovial membrane and serves several functions,
but which of the following is NOT one of them?
A. Lubricating the joint
B. Supplying nutrients to chondrocytes
C. Removing metabolic wastes
D. Increasing the friction between bones
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Synovial fluid is a viscous liquid that actually reduces friction
rather than increasing it. It is composed of hyaluronic acid and interstitial fluid
filtered from blood plasma. This fluid nourishes the avascular articular cartilage and
, removes waste products through movement. It also contains phagocytic cells that
help clear debris and microbes from the joint cavity. Nurses should monitor for
changes in joint fluid volume, as excess production often indicates inflammation or
injury.
5. Which specialized fibrocartilage structures are found in the knee joint to improve
the fit between the femur and tibia?
A. Tendon sheaths
B. Bursae
C. Menisci
D. Articular capsules
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Menisci, or articular discs, are crescent-shaped pads of
fibrocartilage that lie between the articular surfaces of the bones. They help to
deepen the joint surface and provide a better fit for the rounded femoral condyles
on the flat tibial plateau. Furthermore, they contribute to shock absorption and help
distribute the weight of the body across the joint. Injuries to these structures are
common in athletes and can lead to significant knee instability. Clinical assessments
for knee pain often involve testing the integrity of these pads.
3 | Questions with Correct Answers and Expert
Explanation for Each Question | Saint Paul’s School
of Nursing
1. Which type of joint is structurally classified by the presence of a synovial cavity and
dense irregular connective tissue of an articular capsule?
A. Fibrous joint
B. Synovial joint
C. Cartilaginous joint
D. Gomphosis
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Synovial joints are unique because they contain a space called
the synovial cavity between articulating bones. This cavity is surrounded by a
connective tissue capsule that attaches the bones together. Unlike fibrous or
cartilaginous joints, synovial joints allow for a significant range of movement known
as diarthrosis. An example of this joint type is the shoulder or the knee.
Understanding these structures is vital for nurses when assessing patients with
mobility issues or joint pain.
,2. In the functional classification of joints, what term describes a joint that is slightly
movable?
A. Amphiarthrosis
B. Synarthrosis
C. Diarthrosis
D. Suture
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Amphiarthrosis refers to a joint that allows a limited amount
of movement between bones. This functional category is contrasted with
synarthrosis, which is immovable, and diarthrosis, which is freely movable. The
pubic symphysis is a classic example of an amphiarthrotic joint that allows slight
shifting. These joints provide a balance between the stability needed for support
and the flexibility needed for physiological processes. Nurses must distinguish these
movement types to evaluate normal versus restricted patient mobility.
3. Which of the following is a primary function of articular cartilage in a synovial joint?
A. Secreting synovial fluid
B. Reducing friction and absorbing shock
C. Binding the joint to nearby muscles
,D. Acting as a primary blood supply for the bone
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Articular cartilage consists of hyaline cartilage that covers the
ends of bones within a synovial joint. Its main role is to provide a smooth, slippery
surface that reduces friction during movement. Additionally, it helps distribute
pressure and absorb mechanical shocks that occur during activities like walking or
jumping. Because it lacks its own blood supply, damage to this cartilage can lead to
chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. Assessing the integrity of this tissue is a key
part of orthopedic nursing care.
4. Synovial fluid is produced by the synovial membrane and serves several functions,
but which of the following is NOT one of them?
A. Lubricating the joint
B. Supplying nutrients to chondrocytes
C. Removing metabolic wastes
D. Increasing the friction between bones
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Synovial fluid is a viscous liquid that actually reduces friction
rather than increasing it. It is composed of hyaluronic acid and interstitial fluid
filtered from blood plasma. This fluid nourishes the avascular articular cartilage and
, removes waste products through movement. It also contains phagocytic cells that
help clear debris and microbes from the joint cavity. Nurses should monitor for
changes in joint fluid volume, as excess production often indicates inflammation or
injury.
5. Which specialized fibrocartilage structures are found in the knee joint to improve
the fit between the femur and tibia?
A. Tendon sheaths
B. Bursae
C. Menisci
D. Articular capsules
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Menisci, or articular discs, are crescent-shaped pads of
fibrocartilage that lie between the articular surfaces of the bones. They help to
deepen the joint surface and provide a better fit for the rounded femoral condyles
on the flat tibial plateau. Furthermore, they contribute to shock absorption and help
distribute the weight of the body across the joint. Injuries to these structures are
common in athletes and can lead to significant knee instability. Clinical assessments
for knee pain often involve testing the integrity of these pads.
