A chondrocyte divides and the two daughter cells begin producing extracellular matrix to separate them. This is an example of:

A. ground substance
This is a major component of the ECM, consisting of water, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins that fill the space between fibers and cells.

B. cytoplasmic inclusions
These are structures found inside the cell (e.g., glycogen granules, lipid droplets), not in the extracellular matrix.

C. fluid
Interstitial fluid (extracellular fluid) is part of the ECM and facilitates nutrient and waste exchange.

D. protein fibers
Collagen, elastic, and reticular fibers are key components of the ECM that provide strength, flexibility, and support.

A. osteoporosis
This is a condition of reduced bone mass, often due to calcium/Vitamin D deficiency or hormonal imbalance-not defective collagen.

B. osteogenesis imperfecta
Known as “brittle bone disease”, osteogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disorder caused by defective or insufficient type I collagen, leading to fragile bones.

C. osteomalacia
Caused by Vitamin D deficiency, leading to soft bones due to defective mineralization, not collagen defects.

D. osteoarthritis
Degeneration of articular cartilage due to aging or wear-and-tear, not a collagen production issue.

E. osteopetrosis
A bone resorption disorder due to defective osteoclasts, resulting in abnormally dense but brittle bones-not due to collagen abnormalities.

F. fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva
A rare genetic disorder in which soft tissue gradually turns into bone, unrelated to collagen production.