Microscopic Anatomy and Functions of Bone

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the microscopic anatomy of bone, bone functions, types of joints, and major bone groups in the skeleton.

Haversian canals

Central canals in compact bone that contain blood vessels and nerves.

Osteon

The structural unit of compact bone consisting of a central canal and concentric lamellae.

Lacunae

Small cavities within the bone matrix that contain osteocytes.

Osteocytes

Mature bone cells that reside in lacunae.

Canaliculi

Tiny canals that connect lacunae to central canals for nutrient and waste transport.

Volkmann’s canals

Canals that run perpendicular to Haversian canals and connect blood vessels and nerves between them.

Compact Bone

Dense and strong bone tissue that forms the outer layer of bones.

Spongy Bone

Lighter, less dense bone that is found within bones and contains marrow.

Epiphyseal Line/Plate

Layer of cartilage that allows for growth in the length of long bones during development.

Ossification

The process by which bone tissue is formed.

Osteoblasts

Bone cells that create new bone tissue.

Osteoclasts

Bone cells that break down or resorb bone tissue.

Synarthrotic joint

A type of joint that is immovable, such as the sutures of the skull.

Amphiarthrotic joint

A type of joint that is slightly movable, such as the joints between vertebrae.

Diarthrotic joint

A type of joint that is freely movable, such as the hip or shoulder.

Foramen Magnum

The large hole at the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes.

Axial Skeleton

The part of the skeleton that consists of the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage.

Appendicular Skeleton

The part of the skeleton that includes the limbs and girdles.