Question

which of the following joints unites the bodies of adjacent vertebrae?

fibrous
diarthrosis
cartilaginous
synovial

Explanation:

Identify the structural classification of intervertebral joints

The bodies of adjacent vertebrae are joined by intervertebral discs, which are composed of fibrocartilage. Joints united by cartilage are structurally classified as cartilaginous joints (specifically, symphyses).

Evaluate the given options

• Fibrous joints are united by dense fibrous connective tissue (e.g., sutures).
• Diarthrosis is a functional classification referring to freely movable joints.
• Cartilaginous joints are united by hyaline cartilage or fibrocartilage, matching the intervertebral discs.
• Synovial joints possess a fluid-filled joint cavity (e.g., the zygapophyseal joints between vertebral arches, but not the vertebral bodies).

Answer:

• Fibrous
• Diarthrosis
• Cartilaginous (Correct answer)
• Synovial