Which structure connects muscle to bone?

The structure that connects muscle to bone is a tendon. Tendons are strong, flexible connective tissues that play a crucial role in enabling movement by transmitting the force generated by muscles to the bones they are attached to. When muscles contract, they pull on the tendons, which in turn move the bones at the joints, facilitating locomotion and various physical activities. This connection is essential for maintaining stability and function in the musculoskeletal system.

In contrast, ligaments connect bone to bone, providing joint stability. Cartilage is a smooth, flexible tissue that covers the ends of bones at joints and aids in reducing friction. Joints are the areas where two or more bones meet, allowing for movement. Each of these structures plays a distinct and important role in the body's mechanics, but it is the tendon that specifically serves the function of linking muscles to bones.