In the context of connective tissue, what is the ground substance?

• A. The amorphous, gel-like extracellular matrix material between cells and fibers that supports diffusion and binds water
• B. Bundles of collagen fibers that provide tensile strength to the tissue
• C. The mineralized component of bone composed primarily of calcium phosphate crystals
• D. Specialized contractile cells responsible for generating force and movement

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that connective tissue is composed of cells, fibers, and ground substance, which together form the extracellular matrix.
2. Recognize that the ground substance is the non-cellular, amorphous material that fills the space between cells and fibers in connective tissue.
3. Know that this ground substance is gel-like and supports diffusion of nutrients and waste products between blood vessels and cells.
4. Identify that the ground substance also binds water, helping to maintain tissue hydration and providing a medium through which molecules can move.
5. Distinguish the ground substance from other components such as collagen fibers (which provide tensile strength), mineralized bone matrix (which provides rigidity), and contractile cells (which generate force).