The condylar cartilage remains capable of growth even in old age.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Cannot be determined

Answer: (A)

The lifelong growth potential of the mandibular condylar cartilage lies in its nature as a secondary cartilage with ongoing endochondral ossification. The condyle is not a static cap; it has growth zones—resting, proliferative, and hypertrophic—that keep chondrocytes dividing and maturing into bone-forming cells. Functional use of the jaw (chewing, speaking, orthodontic forces) continually stimulates remodeling, so even in older individuals the condylar cartilage can respond and contribute to changes in the mandible, though usually at a slower rate than during puberty. So the statement is true because the condylar cartilage retains the cellular machinery and functional triggers needed for growth and adaptation throughout life, not just in youth.