Given below are two statements. One is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).

Assertion (A) : In the vertebral column, adjacent vertebrae are articulated by cartilage joints.

Reason (R) : Intervertebral discs between adjacent vertebrae are made of cartilage.

In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the option given below.

Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

The articulations between adjacent vertebrae are cartilaginous joints. These joints provide some flexibility and allow for limited movement between the vertebrae while also providing support and stability to the spinal column, because the Intervertebral discs are made of cartilage. It acts as a shock absorber, helping to distribute forces evenly across the spine and allowing for movement while maintaining stability.