Skeletal System Part 2 Flashcards
What are the two types of connective tissue in the skeletal system?
Cartilage and bone
What is the function of articular cartilage?
Reduces friction between bones and acts as a shock absorber
What type of cartilage is found in joints, the respiratory tract, and the immature skeleton?
Hyaline cartilage
What is the metaphysis in a mature bone?
The region where the diaphysis and epiphysis meet
In growing bones, what is the epiphyseal plate?
A layer of hyaline cartilage where bone growth in length occurs
What is the periosteum?
A tough sheath of dense irregular connective tissue covering the bone surface not covered by articular cartilage
What does the medullary cavity contain in adults?
Fatty yellow bone marrow
What is osteoid?
The bone matrix composed of mineral salts, collagen fibers, and water
What are the four types of bone cells?
- Osteoprogenitor cells * Osteoblasts * Osteocytes * Osteoclasts
What is the primary function of osteoblasts?
To build bone by synthesizing and secreting collagen and other components
What is the role of osteocytes?
Mature osteoblasts that facilitate communication and nutrient exchange between bone cells
What is the function of osteoclasts?
To break down the underlying bone matrix in a process called reabsorption
True or False: Compact bone contains osteons.
True
What is the difference between compact bone and cancellous bone?
Compact bone has few spaces and is denser, while cancellous bone has an irregular latticework and contains trabeculae
What are Haversian canals?
Central canals within osteons that contain blood vessels and nerves
What is the primary function of yellow bone marrow?
To store fat
What is ossification?
The process of bone formation
What are the two methods of ossification?
- Intramembranous ossification * Endochondral ossification
What is intramembranous ossification?
Bone forms directly on or within fibrous membranes
What is endochondral ossification?
Replacement of cartilage by bone
What is the role of calcitonin in ossification?
Regulates metabolism of calcium during bone formation
What are fontanels?
Soft spots in an infant’s skull where bones don’t completely ossify
What is the primary ossification center in long bones?
The diaphysis
What happens to the epiphyseal plate in adult bones?
It becomes the epiphyseal line
