Which terms can be used to classify connective tissue?

The classification of connective tissue is often based on the physical properties and structural composition of the tissue. One commonly accepted classification is into hard and soft categories.

Hard connective tissues, such as bone, provide structural support and protection for the body, while soft connective tissues, like adipose (fat) tissue and loose connective tissue, have more flexibility and are typically involved in storing energy, cushioning organs, and facilitating the movement between different tissue types.

Other classification methods may include aspects like density and composition, but the broad and encompassing terms of hard and soft effectively convey the main differences in types of connective tissues. This classification helps in understanding how different connective tissues function in various physiological contexts.