Which structure consists of fibrous cartilage between vertebrae that provides shock absorption and flexibility?

• A. Pubic symphysis
• B. Intervertebral discs
• C. Costal cartilage
• D. Intervertebral joints

Answer: (B)

Intervertebral discs are fibrocartilaginous cushions that sit between adjacent vertebral bodies. Their outer ring, the annulus fibrosus, is tough and fibrous, while the inner nucleus pulposus is a gel-like core. This combination lets the spine absorb compressive forces from daily activities and maintain space between vertebrae, which enables bending, twisting, and general flexibility without grinding the bones together. Other options aren’t located between the vertebrae or don’t provide the same cushion: the pubic symphysis is a pelvic joint with fibrocartilage, the costal cartilage connects ribs to the sternum and is largely hyaline cartilage, and intervertebral joints refer to the joints between vertebrae rather than the cushioning discs themselves.