What is the role of tendons in the muscular system?

• A. Connect bones at joints
• B. Facilitate movement
• C. Tissues around muscles
• D. Provide structure to joints

Answer: (C)

Tendons play a crucial role in the muscular system by serving as the connective tissue that links muscles to bones. This connection is essential for the facilitation of movement. When a muscle contracts, it pulls on the tendon, which in turn pulls on the bone to create movement at the joint. This interaction between muscles and tendons is fundamental to how we perform various physical activities, as the strength and composition of tendons greatly influence the overall efficiency and effectiveness of muscle contractions.

While tissues around muscles and other structures may support muscle function in different ways, the primary function of tendons is not merely to provide surrounding tissue but rather to ensure that muscle contractions can translate into movement by connecting to bones directly. Thus, the correct answer highlights the direct mechanical role tendons play in the muscular system's functionality.