HMS, BM EQ-Bank 24

Outline how the structure of ball and socket joints enables a greater range of movement than hinge joints. Support your response with examples. (3 marks)

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Sample answer

Ball-and-socket joints

Feature a spherical head fitting into a cup-shaped socket, enabling multi-directional movement.
This structure permits flexion, extension, abduction, adduction and rotation.

Hinge joints

Have cylindrical surfaces allowing movement in only one plane – flexion and extension.

Examples:

The shoulder (ball-and-socket) allows arm movement in all directions for throwing.
The elbow (hinge) only bends and straightens, providing stability for lifting.

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Sample answer

Ball-and-socket joints

Feature a spherical head fitting into a cup-shaped socket, enabling multi-directional movement.
This structure permits flexion, extension, abduction, adduction and rotation.

Hinge joints

Have cylindrical surfaces allowing movement in only one plane – flexion and extension.

Examples:

The shoulder (ball-and-socket) allows arm movement in all directions for throwing.
The elbow (hinge) only bends and straightens, providing stability for lifting.