Long Bone Flashcard

Front

What is the medullary cavity?

Back

The medullary cavity is the central cavity of bone shafts where red and yellow bone marrow is stored.

Front

What is the function of the endosteum?

Back

The endosteum is a thin membrane that lines the inner surface of the medullary cavity and is involved in bone growth, repair, and remodeling.

Front

What is spongy bone?

Back

Spongy bone, also known as cancellous bone, is a type of bone that has a porous structure and is found at the ends of long bones and in the interior of others, providing strength and reducing weight.

Front

What is articular cartilage?

Back

Articular cartilage is a smooth, white tissue that covers the ends of bones in joints, allowing for smooth movement and reducing friction.

Front

What is the diaphysis of a long bone?

Back

The diaphysis is the long, tubular shaft of a long bone, which provides structural support and houses the medullary cavity.

Front

What are the main components of a long bone?

Back

The main components of a long bone include the diaphysis, epiphyses, medullary cavity, endosteum, periosteum, and articular cartilage.

Front

What is the periosteum?

Back

The periosteum is a dense layer of vascular connective tissue that envelops the bones except at the surfaces of the joints.

Front

How does spongy bone differ from compact bone?

Back

Spongy bone has a porous structure and is lighter, while compact bone is dense and provides strength and support.

Front

What role does yellow bone marrow play?

Back

Yellow bone marrow primarily stores fat and serves as an energy reserve, and it can convert to red marrow if the body needs more blood cells.

Front

What is the significance of the epiphyseal plate?

Back

The epiphyseal plate, or growth plate, is a hyaline cartilage plate in the metaphysis at each end of a long bone, where bone growth occurs in children and adolescents.