76 ELEMENTS OF MAMMALIAN ANATOMY. 
The shoulder-joint has only two or three ligaments, the 
most important of which is the capsular. The elbow-joint 
has four ligaments and the hip-joint only two. In the 
ankle-joint there are eight ligaments in addition to the 
capsular. 
These ligaments which bind the joints consist of white 
fibrous connective tissue which under the microscope is seen 
to be composed of parallel and interlacing fibers. They 
are very tough and have but little elasticity, so that the 
joints are seldom dislocated (Fig. 11). 
PRACTICAL QUESTIONS AND SUGGESTIONS. 
1. Give three examples of each of the three general classes of 
joints. 
2. Explain difference in anatomy of the three classes of joints. 
3. Without aid of the microscope can you detect any differences 
between a ligament and a tendon? 
4. By removing the capsular ligament describe the ligaments that 
can be displayed on the lateral and caudal aspects of the knee-joint. 
5. After bringing to view by dissection as many ligaments as pos- 
sible on inner aspect of knee-joint, draw and label all parts. 
6. Draw the menisci. : 
7. By careful dissection note the ligaments present in the hip-joint. 
8. How many ligaments can you find in the shoulder-joint? 
g. In what joints is synovia present? 
1o. Cut a very thin slice of articular cartilage about a millimeter 
square, mount in dilute acetic acid, and make drawing as seen under 
the microscope. 
