Question

multiple choice question
the shoulder joint is an example of a ______ joint, a class of synovial joints.
pivot
hinge
ball and socket
condyloid

Explanation:

The shoulder joint allows for a wide - range of motion in multiple directions. A ball - and - socket joint consists of a rounded end (ball) of one bone fitting into a cup - like depression (socket) of another bone, enabling such multi - directional movement. The shoulder joint has the head of the humerus (ball) fitting into the glenoid cavity of the scapula (socket). Pivot joints allow rotation around a single axis, hinge joints allow movement like a door hinge (flexion and extension), and condyloid joints allow flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and circumduction but not rotation like a ball - and - socket joint.

Answer:

C. ball and socket