Bone cells that are surrounded by bone matrix and are located within lacunae are ____.

• A. osteocytes
• B. osteoclasts
• C. osteoblasts
• D. chondrocytes

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the structure of bone tissue. Bone tissue is composed of cells embedded within a solid matrix made of collagen fibers and mineral deposits, primarily calcium phosphate.
2. Step 2: Learn the roles of the different types of bone cells. Osteoblasts are responsible for forming new bone matrix, osteoclasts break down bone matrix during remodeling, and osteocytes are mature bone cells that maintain the matrix. Chondrocytes, on the other hand, are cartilage cells and are not found in bone tissue.
3. Step 3: Focus on the term 'lacunae.' Lacunae are small spaces within the bone matrix where mature bone cells reside. These spaces are connected by tiny channels called canaliculi, which allow for communication and nutrient exchange between cells.
4. Step 4: Match the description in the problem to the correct cell type. The problem specifies bone cells surrounded by matrix and located within lacunae, which corresponds to osteocytes.
5. Step 5: Eliminate the incorrect options. Osteoblasts are found on the surface of bone tissue, actively forming matrix. Osteoclasts are involved in bone resorption and are not located within lacunae. Chondrocytes are found in cartilage, not bone. Therefore, the correct answer is osteocytes.