What is one characteristic of strong tissues attaching muscles to bones?

The strong tissues that attach muscles to bones are known as tendons. Tendons are fibrous connective tissues that have a high tensile strength, allowing them to withstand the forces generated by muscle contractions without easily tearing. Their primary function is to connect muscles to bones, enabling movement when the muscles contract. Tendons are specifically designed for this role, made primarily of collagen fibers, which provide strength and resistance to stretching while still allowing for some degree of flexibility.

In contrast, ligaments, which are mentioned in the options, serve a different purpose; they connect bones to other bones at joints, not muscles to bones. The elastic and pliable properties mentioned in another option apply more to tendons than to those characteristics prioritized by elastic tissue, which can stretch, but excessive stretching risks injury to the tendon. Therefore, the distinct function and composition of tendons validate them as the correct answer, distinguishing them from other options that refer to different structures or properties unrelated to the attachment of muscles to bones.