Which of the following is NOT a primary function of tendons?

Tendons primarily serve several important functions in the musculoskeletal system, with the most notable being the transmission of tensile forces generated by muscles to the bones, allowing for movement. This function positions tendons as crucial components in the process of locomotion, as they connect muscles to bones and facilitate motion through the transmission of these forces.

While tendons contribute to joint stability by connecting muscle to bone and thereby providing a degree of support to the joint, their primary role is more focused on force transmission and enabling movement rather than actively enhancing joint stability.

On the other hand, the role of protecting bones is largely fulfilled by other structures such as cartilage and ligaments, which provide cushioning and support to the skeletal system. Hence, while tendons may offer some indirect protective functions through their roles in movement and stability, they do not primarily function as protective structures for bones. This clarification underscores why the answer specifying that protecting bones is not a primary function of tendons is accurate.