Which structure can be found primarily in the intervertebral discs due to its ability to withstand tensile stresses?

The structure primarily found in intervertebral discs that can withstand tensile stresses is fibrocartilage. This specialized type of cartilage has a dense matrix that contains collagen fibers arranged in a way that provides both strength and flexibility. The intervertebral discs are positioned between the vertebrae in the spinal column, and their primary function is to act as shock absorbers while allowing for flexibility and movement in the spine.

Fibrocartilage is particularly suited for this role because its composition and structure enable it to handle the stresses and strains of everyday activities, such as lifting, twisting, and carrying loads. The collagen fibers help to resist tensile forces, which are the pulling forces that can occur when the spine moves.

In contrast, other types of cartilage and structures do not provide the same level of tensile strength that fibrocartilage does. Ligaments are more specialized for connecting bones to other bones and providing stability, but they do not have the same tensile strength as fibrocartilage in the context of being a load-bearing structure. Elastic cartilage offers flexibility but lacks the tensile strength needed to support intervertebral discs effectively. Hyaline cartilage, while providing smooth surfaces for joint movement and slight flexibility, is not designed to withstand the tensile pressures found in intervertebral discs.