Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the epiphyseal plate in a growing long bone?

Accepted Answer

It is the site of lengthwise growth due to hyaline cartilage proliferation.

Question 2

A patient presents with a blood calcium level significantly below normal. Which hormone is most likely to be secreted in response, and what is its effect on bone tissue?

Accepted Answer

Parathyroid hormone (PTH); activates osteoclasts to break down bone and release calcium.

Question 3

Which of the following bone types is correctly matched with its example and main structural characteristic?

Accepted Answer

Flat bone – sternum; two layers of compact bone sandwiching spongy bone.

Question 4

A 10-year-old child fractures their femur. Which of the following best explains why the fracture may affect the future length of the bone?

Accepted Answer

The fracture may disrupt the epiphyseal plate, impairing lengthwise growth.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the microscopic structure of compact bone?

Accepted Answer

Osteons containing concentric lamellae around a central (Haversian) canal.

Question 6

A patient with osteoporosis is at increased risk for which of the following complications, and what is the underlying cause?

Accepted Answer

Kyphosis due to vertebral collapse; decreased bone density from loss of calcium salts.

Question 7

Which of the following correctly matches a bone marking with its description and function?

Accepted Answer

Crest – narrow ridge of bone for muscle or ligament attachment.

Question 8

During bone remodeling, which two factors primarily determine where and when bone matrix is formed or broken down?

Accepted Answer

Blood calcium levels and the pull of gravity/muscles on the skeleton.

Question 9

A 70-year-old woman suffers a hip fracture after a minor fall. Which physiological change most likely contributed to her injury?

Accepted Answer

Decreased bone mass from osteoporosis, often due to reduced estrogen.

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why the hyoid bone is unique among bones of the human body?

Accepted Answer

It does not articulate with any other bone and serves as a movable base for the tongue.

Question 11

A patient has a compound (open) fracture of the tibia. Which of the following best describes this injury?

Accepted Answer

The bone is broken and protrudes through the skin, increasing infection risk.

Question 12

Which of the following correctly matches a type of synovial joint with its movement and example?

Accepted Answer

Ball-and-socket joint – allows movement in all axes; found in the hip.

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the process of intramembranous ossification?

Accepted Answer

Bone develops from fibrous membranes, as in flat bones of the skull.

Question 14

A 25-year-old male is diagnosed with a torn tendon sheath in his wrist. What is the primary function of a tendon sheath?

Accepted Answer

To wrap around a tendon and reduce friction during movement.

Question 15

Which of the following statements about the vertebral column is correct?

Accepted Answer

The sacrum is formed by the fusion of 5 vertebrae and is part of the pelvic girdle.

Question 16

A patient is found to have a deficiency in collagen fibers in their bone matrix. Which property of bone would be most affected?

Accepted Answer

The bone's flexibility and tensile strength.

Question 17

Which of the following best explains the difference between primary and secondary spinal curvatures?

Accepted Answer

Primary curvatures are present at birth (thoracic and sacral), while secondary curvatures (cervical and lumbar) develop after birth.

Question 18

A 6-year-old child is found to have a fontanel that has not yet ossified. What is the clinical significance of this finding?

Accepted Answer

It allows for continued brain growth and skull compression during birth.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the process of bone repair after a fracture?

Accepted Answer

A hematoma forms, followed by a fibrocartilage callus, then a bony callus, and finally bone remodeling.

Skeletal System: Structure, Function, and Development

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