What type of force exceeds the ability of tissue to absorb, resulting in a bruise?

The correct choice indicates that compression force exceeds the ability of tissue to absorb, leading to the formation of a bruise. Compression force refers to the pressure applied to the tissue, causing it to be squeezed and compacted. When this force is strong enough, it can damage the small blood vessels in the tissue, leading to bleeding underneath the skin, which appears as a bruise.

In contrast, impact force generally refers to a sudden, concentrated force coming from an external source, often seen in direct blows or strikes. While it can also lead to bruising, the specific nature of the force described in this question aligns with how compression affects tissues directly.

Shear force involves forces acting parallel to the tissue, causing sliding or tearing along the surface, while tensile force applies a stretching effect, pulling tissues apart. Neither of these would primarily result in a bruise in the same manner as compression, where direct and localized pressure overwhelms the tissue's protective mechanisms. Thus, understanding how compression forces work helps clarify why they play a direct role in bruise formation.