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Skeletal System Basics - Anatomy & Physiology

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Terms in this set (20)

  • Primary functions of the skeletal system

    Support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell production, and energy storage.

  • Layers of the periosteum and their functions

    The outer fibrous layer provides protection and attachment for tendons and ligaments; the inner cellular layer contains osteogenic cells for bone growth and repair.

  • General characteristics of cartilage tissue

    Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue with a firm, gel-like matrix; it is avascular and provides support and cushioning in joints.

  • Three types of cartilage and their locations

    Hyaline cartilage: ends of long bones, nose, trachea; Elastic cartilage: ear, epiglottis; Fibrocartilage: intervertebral discs, pubic symphysis.

  • Osteoblasts function

    Osteoblasts are bone-forming cells that secrete the bone matrix and initiate calcification.

  • Osteocytes function

    Osteocytes are mature bone cells that maintain the bone matrix and communicate with other bone cells.

  • Osteoclasts function

    Osteoclasts are large cells that resorb and break down bone tissue during growth and healing.

  • Macro-anatomy of a long bone

    Includes the diaphysis (shaft), epiphyses (ends), medullary cavity (marrow space), periosteum, and articular cartilage.

  • Two types of osseous tissue

    Compact bone is dense and forms the outer layer; spongy bone is porous and found inside bones, especially in epiphyses.

  • Location of compact bone in a long bone

    Compact bone forms the outer shell of the diaphysis and covers the spongy bone in the epiphyses.

  • Location of spongy bone in a long bone

    Spongy bone is found primarily in the epiphyses and inside flat bones, containing red marrow.

  • Basic composition of compact bone

    Compact bone is made of osteons (Haversian systems) with concentric lamellae surrounding a central canal.

  • Basic composition of spongy bone

    Spongy bone consists of a network of trabeculae with spaces filled by marrow.

  • Function of the periosteum

    The periosteum protects bone, anchors blood vessels and nerves, and contains cells for growth and repair.

  • Role of articular cartilage

    Articular cartilage covers bone ends at joints, reducing friction and absorbing shock.

  • Definition of diaphysis

    The diaphysis is the long, tubular shaft of a long bone.

  • Definition of epiphysis

    The epiphysis is the rounded end of a long bone, usually covered with articular cartilage.

  • Medullary cavity contents

    The medullary cavity contains yellow bone marrow in adults, which stores fat.

  • Cells responsible for bone resorption

    Osteoclasts break down bone matrix during remodeling and calcium release.

  • Cells responsible for bone matrix maintenance

    Osteocytes maintain the mineral concentration of the matrix.