What type of tissue is elastic and found in some joints, as well as in the nose and ear?

The correct answer is cartilage, specifically elastic cartilage, which is a type of connective tissue. Elastic cartilage is characterized by its flexibility and resilience, making it well-suited to areas that require both shape and support. In the body, it is found in structures such as the ear and the epiglottis, as well as in certain joints. The elastic fibers present in this type of cartilage allow it to stretch and return to its original shape, which is crucial in maintaining the functionality of these structures.

In contrast, bone is a rigid tissue that provides strength and support but lacks the elasticity characteristic of cartilage. Fibrous tissue primarily consists of densely packed collagen fibers and is used for strong connections between tissues and organs, lacking the flexibility of elastic cartilage. Nervous tissue, on the other hand, is specialized for transmitting signals and does not have the supportive or elastic properties found in cartilage. Thus, elastic cartilage's unique composition allows it to fulfill specific roles in maintaining the structure and function of various anatomical parts.