Three visual differences between elastic and hyaline cartilages

1. The matrix of elastic cartilage is more eosinophilic and textured due to the abundance of easily visible small elastic fibers

2. Elastic cartilage is less basophilic (blue) because it has less ground substance in it. This is necessary for the tissue to be flexible. The elastica just causes the cartilage to return to its original configuration when distorted. It does not impart flexibility (embedding rubber bands in concrete would not make it flexible, would it?)

3. Elastic cartilage has less matrix because the cells are larger and more numerous. Reducing the amount of matrix again is important to increase the pliability of the cartilage.