Human A and P Bone Anatomy and Homeostasis Flashcard

Front

What is endochondral ossification?

Back

A process where hyaline cartilage is transformed into bone, primarily occurring in the formation of long bones.

Front

What are osteoblasts?

Back

Bone-forming cells responsible for synthesizing and mineralizing bone during the process of bone formation.

Front

What is the primary method of bone formation for most bones in the skeleton?

Back

Endochondral ossification.

Front

What is an osteocyte?

Back

A bone cell that is surrounded by hard bone matrix, playing a crucial role in maintaining bone tissue.

Front

Where does the primary ossification center occur in long bones?

Back

In the diaphysis, which is the central shaft of the long bone.

Front

What is the role of osteoclasts?

Back

Cells that break down bone tissue, playing a key role in bone remodeling and calcium homeostasis.

Front

What is intramembranous ossification?

Back

A process of bone development where bone forms directly from mesenchymal tissue, primarily seen in flat bones like the skull.

Front

What is the function of the periosteum?

Back

A dense layer of vascular connective tissue enveloping the bones except at the surfaces of the joints, providing nourishment and attachment for tendons and ligaments.

Front

What is the medullary cavity?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of the epiphyseal plate?

Back

A hyaline cartilage plate in the metaphysis at each end of a long bone, responsible for the lengthwise growth of the bone.