Which shape describes a condyloid joint that allows for angular motion?

The condyloid joint is specifically characterized by its ability to allow for angular motion in two planes. This is due to the structure of the joint, which consists of an oval-shaped end of one bone fitting into a similarly shaped cavity of another bone. This configuration enables a range of movement, including flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction, which differentiates it from other joint types.

For example, the metacarpophalangeal joints (the joints between the fingers and the hand) are classic examples of condyloid joints. They facilitate movement that allows fingers to bend and spread apart, demonstrating the angular motions that this joint type enables.

While the other joint types listed have their specific movements—ball and socket joints provide multi-directional movement, hinge joints promote flexion and extension in one plane, and pivot joints allow rotational movement around a single axis—they do not provide the same range of angular motion across two planes that condyloid joints do. Hence, the description of a joint that allows for angular motion fits precisely with the characteristics of a condyloid joint.