Cartilage

Cartilage is the hard substance that the body uses to connect bones together. It also allows joints to move smoothly and protects against shocks to the body. It is found in the joints, the rib cage, the ear, the nose, the throat and between the bones of the back. The main purpose of cartilage is to create a place on which bones can form when they are first created. It also protects the places where bones rub against each other.

Parts

Cartilage has cells and fibres (tiny strings) that cross over each other like fabric.

Other websites

• University of Kansas Medical Center Cartilage tutorial
• Public domain text from Gray's anatomy dated 1918, so probably needs updating
• I've heard 'Ears and nose do not ever stop growing.' Is this false?