What happens to the overall thickness of the epiphyseal plate as new bone is added on the diaphyseal side?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the changes in the thickness of the epiphyseal plate in relation to the addition of new bone on the diaphyseal side, requiring knowledge of bone growth and development.
Answer
The overall thickness of the epiphyseal plate remains constant.
The overall thickness of the epiphyseal plate stays the same as new bone is added on the diaphyseal side.
Answer for screen readers
The overall thickness of the epiphyseal plate stays the same as new bone is added on the diaphyseal side.
More Information
As new bone is added on the diaphyseal side of the growth plate during endochondral ossification, cartilage on the epiphyseal side is continually replaced, maintaining the plate's constant thickness. This process enables bones to lengthen during growth.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking that the thickness increases, but it actually stays constant due to the balance between cartilage growth and ossification.
Sources
- 6.4 Bone Formation and Development – Anatomy & Physiology - open.oregonstate.education
- Bone Growth and Development | Biology for Majors II - courses.lumenlearning.com
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