What do ligaments connect?

• A. Muscles to bones
• B. Bones at joints
• C. Tendons to muscles
• D. Nerves to muscles

Answer: (B)

Ligaments connect bones at joints, which plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and support during movement. These strong, fibrous connective tissues help to hold bones together and prevent excessive motion. By securing bones at the joints, ligaments enable a range of movements while safeguarding against injuries that could occur from overextension or displacement of bones. For instance, in the knee joint, ligaments such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) provide essential stability that allows for proper function during activities like running and jumping.

The other options refer to different connections in the body. Muscles connect to bones through tendons, not ligaments. Tendons are the tissues that transmit forces generated by muscles to the skeletal system, facilitating movement. Nerves are connected to muscles through neuromuscular junctions, which enable the transmission of signals that initiate muscle contraction. Therefore, understanding the specific function of ligaments is key to recognizing their importance in joint health and overall body mechanics.