What type of joint is characterized by a spherical head fitting into a cup-like socket, allowing for a wide range of motion?

The type of joint characterized by a spherical head fitting into a cup-like socket is known as a ball and socket joint. This joint structure allows for a significant range of motion in multiple directions, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. Examples of ball and socket joints in the human body include the shoulder joint and the hip joint.

The spherical head provides the ability to move in a circular motion and pivot around a central axis, which means activities such as swinging an arm or lifting a leg can be performed with ease. The cup-like socket provides stability while still permitting this extensive range of movement, distinguishing it from other types of joints that have more limited motion capabilities.

In contrast, hinge joints, like the elbow and knee, are designed primarily for bending and straightening, allowing movement in one plane. Condyloid joints, such as the wrist, allow for movement in two planes but do not provide the rotation that ball and socket joints do. Pivot joints, found in places like the neck, allow for rotation around a single axis but have a more restricted range of motion compared to ball and socket joints.