Parts of a Long Bone Quiz

Parts of a Long Bone

• Diaphysis: The long, central shaft of a bone that provides structural integrity and strength.
• Epiphysis: The terminal ends of a long bone, consisting of spongy bone covered by a thin layer of compact bone.
• Metaphyses: The region between the epiphysis and diaphysis, important for growth in length during childhood and adolescence.

Cartilage and Membranes

• Articular Cartilage: Smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones at joints, reducing friction and absorbing shock.
• Periosteum: A dense fibrous membrane that envelops the outer surface of bones (excluding the ends), playing a vital role in growth, repair, and attachment for muscles and tendons.

Internal Structures

• Medullary Cavity: The central cavity in the shaft of long bones, with a crucial role in housing bone marrow.
• Endosteum: A thin membrane lining the medullary cavity, involved in bone growth and repair, made of dense irregular connective tissue.

Bone Marrow Types

• Red Bone Marrow: The site of hematopoiesis (blood cell production), crucial for the body's immune and oxygen transport systems.
• Yellow Bone Marrow: Gradually replaces red marrow in adults and primarily serves as a fat storage site, with minimal involvement in blood cell production.

Growth Markers

• Epiphyseal Line: The remnant of the epiphyseal plate, indicating where growth occurred during development; important for understanding bone age and growth status.
• Spongy Bone: Found beneath the outer layer of compact bone, characterized by a porous structure, providing lightweight support and housing bone marrow.