Does hematopoiesis occur in red or yellow bone marrow?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking about the process of hematopoiesis and where it occurs within the bones, specifically whether it takes place in red bone marrow or yellow bone marrow.

More Information

Red bone marrow is found primarily in the medullary cavities of flat bones like the sternum and pelvic bones. It contains hematopoietic stem cells that generate red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. In contrast, yellow bone marrow primarily stores fat and can produce blood cells only in life-threatening conditions.

Tips

Do not confuse the functions of red and yellow bone marrow. Yellow bone marrow stores fat and is not usually active in blood cell production.

Sources

• Bone Marrow - my.clevelandclinic.org
• Does hematopoiesis occur in yellow bone marrow? - homework.study.com
• Bone marrow: Function, diseases, transplants, and donation - medicalnewstoday.com