The differences between ribs and rib cartilage are mainly in terms of different locations and different roles, as follows: a. Different locations: ribs make up most of the thorax and are mainly located in the anterior, lateral and posterior thorax. The rib cartilage mainly connects the ribs to the sternum, so the stroke is shorter and usually on both sides of the sternum. Second, the role: the main role of the ribs is to stabilize the thoracic spine and ensure the thorax, while the main role of the rib cartilage is responsible for the connection and does not have the same role of the ribs. Third, other: ribs are prone to rib fractures when subjected to external forces because of their long and curved stroke. The short stroke of the rib cartilage usually rarely results in rib cartilage fracture, which can easily form local infection leading to costochondritis, and the patient will have symptoms of pain and swelling in the anterior thoracic region.