Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a primary function of the skeletal system?

Accepted Answer

Regulation of blood glucose levels

Question 2

A patient presents with a fracture in the shaft of their femur. Which anatomical term best describes this region of the bone?

Accepted Answer

Diaphysis

Question 3

Which of the following statements about compact (cortical) bone is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is denser and covers most bones, providing better storage of minerals.

Question 4

During bone growth in children, which structure is responsible for the lengthening of long bones?

Accepted Answer

Epiphyseal plate

Question 5

A 70-year-old woman suffers a hip fracture after a minor fall. Which condition is most likely responsible for her increased fracture risk?

Accepted Answer

Osteoporosis

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the difference between the axial and appendicular skeleton?

Accepted Answer

The axial skeleton includes the skull, vertebrae, ribs, and sternum, while the appendicular skeleton includes the limbs and girdles.

Question 7

Which bone cell type is primarily responsible for forming new bone matrix?

Accepted Answer

Osteoblast

Question 8

A patient with Cushing syndrome is at increased risk for osteoporosis. Which of the following best explains why?

Accepted Answer

Hormonal imbalances disrupt the bone remodeling cycle, increasing bone resorption.

Question 9

Which of the following is a characteristic of articular cartilage in synovial joints?

Accepted Answer

It is composed of chondrocytes and a matrix of collagen, proteins, and water.

Question 10

A 25-year-old athlete suffers a greenstick fracture. Which of the following best describes this type of fracture?

Accepted Answer

One side of the bone is broken while the other side is bent.

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why spongy bone is lost more readily than compact bone in osteoporosis?

Accepted Answer

Spongy bone has a greater surface area due to its trabecular structure, making it more susceptible to resorption.

Question 12

Which of the following equations best represents the relationship between bone mass, bone formation, and bone resorption?

Accepted Answer

$$ \Delta B = F - R $$

Question 13

A patient with a loss of estrogen after menopause is at increased risk for osteoporosis because:

Accepted Answer

Lack of estrogen sensitizes osteoclasts to parathyroid hormone, increasing bone resorption.

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events in the healing of a bone fracture?

Accepted Answer

Hematoma formation → Fibrocartilaginous callus → Bony callus → Bone remodeling

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the function of the periosteum?

Accepted Answer

It is the outer covering of bone that contains blood vessels and nerves and is connected to bone by Sharpey's fibers.

Question 16

A patient with immobilization of a limb for several months develops regional osteoporosis. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Disuse leads to decreased bone formation and increased resorption.

Question 17

Which of the following is a distinguishing feature of synovial joints compared to other joint types?

Accepted Answer

They have a synovial cavity filled with fluid that allows free movement.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why articular cartilage heals slowly after injury?

Accepted Answer

It lacks blood vessels, lymph vessels, and nerves.

Question 19

A 60-year-old man presents with decreased height and a hunchback posture. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause?

Accepted Answer

Osteoporosis leading to vertebral compression fractures

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the role of the medullary cavity in adult long bones?

Accepted Answer

It contains yellow marrow, which stores fat.

Anatomy: Skeletal System

Study Guide - Practice Questions