What is the primary role of ligaments in the human body?

The primary role of ligaments in the human body is to connect bones to other bones. Ligaments are strong bands of connective tissue that provide stability to joints by holding the bones together and preventing excessive movement that could lead to injury. This function is essential for maintaining the integrity of the skeletal system and allowing for normal movement while providing support and resistance to the forces exerted on the joints during physical activity.

Understanding the structure and function of ligaments is crucial in fields such as kinesiology and sports medicine, as they play a vital role in injury prevention and rehabilitation. The other choices pertain to different anatomical structures or functions. For instance, tendons connect muscles to bones, while certain structures like cartilage cushion joints. Ligaments do not store oxygen or nutrients; that role is typically associated with blood or specific organs.