The nail bed is attached to the bone via which of the following?

The nail bed is firmly attached to the underlying bone primarily through connective tissue, which serves as a supportive structure, providing stability and anchoring the nail. This connective tissue consists of various types of fibrous tissue that help to connect the nail bed to the bone and surrounding tissues, thereby maintaining the integrity and function of the nail unit.

While tendons, ligaments, and cartilage all play critical roles in the human body, they do not specifically connect the nail bed to the bone. Tendons attach muscles to bones, ligaments connect bones to other bones, and cartilage provides cushioning and support at the joints. Thus, the unique role of connective tissue in securing the nail bed to the bone is crucial for the nail's health and proper growth, making it the most appropriate answer in this context.