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Chapter 6: Problem 4

The basic functional unit of compact bone is the Haversian system or (a) osteocyte, (b) osteoclast, (c) osteon, (d) osseous matrix, (e) osseous lamellae.

Short Answer

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(c) osteon

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Question

The question asks about the basic functional unit of compact bone. We need to identify which option correctly names this functional unit.
02

Analyze the Meaning

- Osteocyte: A type of bone cell that maintains the bone tissue. - Osteoclast: A type of bone cell that breaks down bone tissue. - Osteon: The structural unit of compact bone, also known as the Haversian system. - Osseous matrix: The intercellular substance of bone tissue. - Osseous lamellae: Layers of bone matrix within an osteon.
03

Choose the Correct Option

The osteon is the basic functional unit of compact bone, as it is synonymous with the Haversian system. It consists of concentric layers of calcified matrix and is crucial for the structure and function of compact bone.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Compact Bone
Compact bone, also known as cortical bone, is the dense and solid outer layer of bone that provides structure and strength. Unlike spongy bone, which is found inside bones and has a porous structure, compact bone is tough and durable. This type of bone plays a critical role in supporting the weight of the body and protecting the internal organs.

Key features of compact bone include:
  • High density, making it very strong and ideal for weight-bearing activities.
  • Composed of numerous microscopic cylinders called osteons, which are aligned parallel to the long axis of the bone.
  • Contains a network of blood vessels and nerves that nourish the bone and facilitate communication between bone cells.
Understanding compact bone helps explain how our skeleton functions to protect and support us every day.
Osteon
The osteon, also known as the Haversian system, is the key structural unit of compact bone. It is composed of concentric rings of calcified matrix known as lamellae that surround a central channel, called the Haversian canal.

Here's how the osteons function and what makes them special:
  • The Haversian canal contains blood vessels and nerves that supply the bone with nutrients and remove waste products.
  • Osteons are arranged in a way that gives bones their ability to withstand large amounts of stress, which is crucial for maintaining bone integrity during physical activities.
  • They provide the compact bone with its characteristic density and strength.
By understanding osteons, one can see how the bone maintains its durability and capability to support the body.
Bone Cells
Bone cells are specialized cells that play various roles in the maintenance, repair, and overall health of bones. They include osteocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts.

Each type of bone cell has a unique function:
  • Osteocytes: These mature bone cells are trapped in the bone matrix and are responsible for maintaining bone tissue. They help signal the need for bone repair.
  • Osteoblasts: These cells are responsible for forming new bone. They produce the bone matrix and initiate the process of mineralization.
  • Osteoclasts: Large cells that break down bone tissue, which is essential for bone growth, healing, and remodeling. They help in the resorption of bone tissue when calcium levels in the blood are low.
Bone cells interact in a complex system to ensure bones are strong and functional.
Osseous Lamellae
Osseous lamellae are the layers of bone matrix found within an osteon. These layers are arranged in concentric circles around the Haversian canal and are made of mineralized matrix.

The structure and function of osseous lamellae:
  • They provide structural support and help withstand torsional (twisting) forces, which makes bones incredibly resistant to breaking.
  • Each lamella contains collagen fibers that alternate in direction, enhancing the bone's strength and resilience.
  • Lamellae play a key role in the rigidity of compact bone, contributing to the overall mechanical function of the skeleton.
Understanding osseous lamellae highlights how microscopic structures within bones contribute to the macroscopic properties of the skeletal system.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

The process of bone growth at the epiphyseal cartilage is similar to (a) intramembranous ossification, (b) endochondral ossification, (c) the process of osteopenia, (d) the process of healing a fracture, (e) the process of calcification.

Frank does not begin puberty until he is 16 . What effect would you predict this will have on his stature? (a) Frank will probably be taller than if he had started puberty earlier, (b) Frank will probably be shorter than if he had started puberty earlier, (c) Frank will probably be a dwarf, (d) Frank will have bones that are heavier than normal, (e) The late onset of puberty will have no effect on Frank's stature

The primary reason that osteoporosis accelerates after menopause in women is (a) reduced levels of circulating estrogens, (b) reduced levels of vitamin \(\mathrm{C}\), (c) diminished osteoclast activity, (d) increased osteoblast activity.

In physical anthropology, cultural conclusions can be drawn from a thorough examination of the skeletons of ancient peoples. What sorts of clues might bones provide as to the lifestyles of those individuals?

While playing on her swing set, 10-year-old Sally falls and breaks her right leg. At the emergency room, the doctor tells her parents that the proximal end of the tibia where the epiphysis meets the diaphysis is fractured. The fracture is properly set and eventually heals. During a routine physical when she is 18 , Sally leams that her right leg is \(2 \mathrm{~cm}\) shorter than her left, probably because of her accident. What might account for this difference?
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