Which type of joint demonstrates the greatest range of motion?

The type of joint that demonstrates the greatest range of motion is the ball and socket joint. This particular joint allows for movement in multiple directions—flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation—due to its structure, which consists of a spherical head of one bone fitting into a cup-shaped socket of another bone.

The expansive range of motion enabled by ball and socket joints is exemplified by the shoulder and hip joints. In these joints, the spherical shape of the bone head creates a complex and versatile movement capability, allowing limbs to rotate and move in circular paths. This makes ball and socket joints particularly important for activities requiring significant mobility, such as throwing or walking.

In contrast, other types of joints, such as hinge joints, provide limited motion primarily to one plane (like the elbow or knee), while immovable joints allow no movement at all, and saddle joints facilitate movement but still have more constraints compared to ball and socket joints.