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What are knee caps made of?

Published in Anatomy & Composition 2 mins read

Knee caps are primarily made of bone, with some cartilage and fatty tissue.

After analyzing the question and the reference, the question is slightly incomplete. A more complete phrasing would be: What is the composition of a fully developed knee cap?

Here's a detailed breakdown:

Composition of a Fully Developed Knee Cap

A fully developed knee cap, typically around age 10-12, is primarily bone. However, it also includes smaller portions of other tissues:

  • Bone: The main component of a mature knee cap.
  • Cartilage: A small portion of the original structure remains as cartilage. This provides a smooth surface for joint movement.
  • Fat Pad: Another small portion consists of fatty tissue, known as a fat pad.
Component Description
Bone The primary structural material, providing strength and shape.
Cartilage A smooth, protective tissue that reduces friction in the knee joint.
Fat Pad A cushion of fatty tissue that provides additional padding and support.

The development of the knee cap into bone is a gradual process, starting with cartilage and evolving into a bony structure with remnants of cartilage and fatty tissue.

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