What does a ligament primarily do?

A ligament primarily connects one bone to another, playing a crucial role in the stability of joints. This connection is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the skeletal system and ensuring proper movement. Ligaments are made of dense connective tissue, which gives them the strength and resilience needed to withstand the stresses placed on joints during physical activity. By connecting bones, ligaments help to stabilize joints and prevent excessive movement that could lead to injuries.

The other choices encompass functions performed by different structures; for example, facilitating muscle contraction is a function associated with muscles themselves. Attaching muscles to bones is the role of tendons, while supporting joint flexibility is managed through a combination of ligaments, tendons, and the surrounding musculature, but it does not define the primary role of ligaments. Therefore, the primary function of a ligament is to connect bones to each other, which is vital for joint stability and overall movement.