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Structure of Bones and Cartilages

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What are the main components of bone tissue?

    Bone tissue consists of cells (osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts), an extracellular matrix of collagen fibers, and mineral deposits mainly of calcium phosphate.

  • What is the function of osteoblasts?

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

  • What role do osteoclasts play in bone structure?

    Osteoclasts are cells that break down bone tissue, aiding in bone resorption and remodeling.

  • Describe the extracellular matrix of bone.

    The matrix is composed of collagen fibers for flexibility and calcium phosphate crystals for hardness and strength.

  • What are the two main types of bone tissue?

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

  • What is the periosteum?

    The periosteum is a dense connective tissue layer covering the outer surface of bones, containing nerves and blood vessels.

  • What is the function of cartilage in the skeletal system?

    Cartilage provides flexible support, reduces friction in joints, and acts as a precursor in bone development.

  • Name the three types of cartilage.

    Hyaline cartilage, elastic cartilage, and fibrocartilage.

  • Where is hyaline cartilage found?

    Hyaline cartilage is found on articular surfaces of bones, the nose, trachea, and embryonic skeleton.

  • What distinguishes elastic cartilage from other types?

    Elastic cartilage contains many elastic fibers, making it flexible; found in the ear and epiglottis.

  • What is fibrocartilage and where is it located?

    Fibrocartilage is tough and dense with thick collagen fibers; found in intervertebral discs and pubic symphysis.

  • How does cartilage receive nutrients?

    Cartilage is avascular and receives nutrients by diffusion from surrounding tissues.

  • What is the role of chondrocytes?

    Chondrocytes are cartilage cells that produce and maintain the cartilage matrix.

  • What is the difference between bone and cartilage in terms of vascularity?

    Bone is highly vascularized; cartilage is avascular.

  • What is the endosteum?

    The endosteum is a thin membrane lining the inner surface of bone cavities.

  • What is the primary function of compact bone?

    Compact bone provides strength and protection and supports weight.

  • Describe the structure of spongy bone.

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

  • What is the role of trabeculae in spongy bone?

    Trabeculae provide structural support and help distribute mechanical stress.

  • How do bones grow in length?

    Bones grow in length by endochondral ossification at the epiphyseal plates.

  • What is ossification?

    Ossification is the process of bone tissue formation.