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Ch. 6 Bones and Bone Tissue
Amerman - Human Anatomy & Physiology 2nd Edition
Amerman2nd EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136873822Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksAmerman 2nd EditionCh. 6 Bones and Bone TissueProblem 4b
Chapter 6, Problem 4b

Mark the following statements about bone tissue as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
b. The inorganic matrix of bone is solely responsible for the strength of bone tissue.

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Step 1: Understand the composition of bone tissue. Bone tissue is composed of two main components: the organic matrix (primarily collagen fibers) and the inorganic matrix (primarily calcium phosphate crystals, such as hydroxyapatite). These components work together to provide strength and flexibility.
Step 2: Analyze the statement provided. The statement claims that the inorganic matrix of bone is solely responsible for the strength of bone tissue. This implies that the organic matrix does not contribute to the strength of the bone.
Step 3: Evaluate the role of the inorganic matrix. The inorganic matrix provides compressive strength to the bone, allowing it to resist forces such as weight-bearing and impact. However, it is not the sole contributor to bone strength.
Step 4: Evaluate the role of the organic matrix. The organic matrix, primarily composed of collagen fibers, provides tensile strength and flexibility to the bone, preventing it from being brittle and allowing it to withstand bending forces.
Step 5: Correct the false statement. The corrected statement should read: 'The inorganic matrix of bone contributes to the strength of bone tissue, but the organic matrix also plays a crucial role in providing tensile strength and flexibility.'

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Bone Tissue Composition

Bone tissue is composed of both organic and inorganic components. The organic matrix, primarily collagen fibers, provides flexibility and tensile strength, while the inorganic matrix, mainly hydroxyapatite, contributes to the rigidity and compressive strength of bones. Understanding this dual composition is essential for evaluating the statements about bone strength.
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Role of Collagen in Bone

Collagen is a crucial protein in the organic matrix of bone tissue, providing structural support and flexibility. It helps bones withstand tensile forces and prevents fractures. Recognizing the importance of collagen alongside the inorganic components is vital for accurately assessing the strength of bone tissue.
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Bone Remodeling

Bone remodeling is a continuous process where old bone tissue is replaced by new bone tissue, involving the activities of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) and osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells). This process is essential for maintaining bone strength and integrity, as it allows bones to adapt to stress and repair micro-damage, highlighting the dynamic nature of bone tissue.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question

Mark the following statements about bone tissue as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.


e. Osteoblasts are responsible for bone resorption, and osteoclasts are responsible for bone deposition.

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Textbook Question

Mark the following statements about bone tissue as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.


c. Collagen fibers are one of the predominant parts of the inorganic matrix.

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Textbook Question

Mark the following statements about bone tissue as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

a. The primary mineral in the inorganic matrix is hydroxyapatite.

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Textbook Question

Fouz Akkad is a 6-year-old girl who has been diagnosed with a rare genetic defect in which her lysosomes are unable to maintain an acidic pH. What are lysosomes? Why do lysosomes require an acidic pH? How will this affect the ability of certain bone cells to function? What consequences will this disease have on Fouz's bones?

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Textbook Question

Mark the following statements about bone tissue as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.


d. The collagen fibers of bone help it to resist torsion and tension.

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Textbook Question

It used to be common practice in surgical fracture repair to strip and remove the periosteum. Now, however, surgeons take great care to avoid damaging the periosteum. Explain why, and describe what would likely happen to bone healing with the periosteum missing.

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