Human Anatomy: Bone Structure and Function

A type of connective tissue that makes up the skeleton, providing support, protection, and a framework for movement.

The hard, dense outer layer of bone, composed of haversian systems.

The inner, more porous layer of bone, containing red bone marrow.

Mature bone cells responsible for maintaining the bone matrix.

The non-living, mineralized substance that makes up the majority of bone tissue.

The process of blood cell production, occurring primarily in the red bone marrow.

A specialized tissue found in the spongy bone, responsible for producing blood cells.

The mineral that is essential for bone structure and other bodily functions.

Long bones are longer than they are wide, with a shaft and two ends. They are responsible for support, movement, and red blood cell production.

Hyaline cartilage is a smooth, flexible tissue that covers the ends of bones at joints. It reduces friction and allows for smooth movement.

The periosteum is a tough membrane that covers the outer surface of bones (except the joint surfaces). It helps with bone growth, repair, and attachment of tendons and ligaments.

Tendons are strong cords of fibrous connective tissue that connect muscle to bone. They transmit force from muscles to bones for movement.

Ligaments are bands of fibrous connective tissue that connect bone to bone. They provide stability and support to joints.

The process of bone formation, where other tissues are replaced by bone.

The areas in an infant's skull where fibrous connective tissue remains between the bones.

Cells responsible for creating the bone matrix.

The initial stage of bone development in the embryo, where bones form from fibrous connective tissue.

The initial stage of bone development in the embryo, where bones form from cartilage.

Increases protein synthesis and energy production from all food types.

Increases protein synthesis and energy production from all food types.

Decreases the reabsorption of calcium from bones.

Increases protein synthesis and the rate of mitosis of chondrocytes in cartilage; Increases the reabsorption of calcium by the small intestine and kidneys.

Causes long bones to stop growing.

Soft spots on a baby's skull that allow the skull to compress during birth, allowing for easier passage through the birth canal.

The central shaft of a long bone, made of compact bone.

The ends of long bones, made of spongy bone.

Cartilage plates located at the ends of long bones, responsible for bone growth in length.

The process by which cartilage is gradually replaced by bone throughout childhood and adolescence.