Chapter 6: Skeletal System

These flashcards cover key concepts, functions, and structures of the skeletal system as outlined in Chapter 6 notes.

What are the main functions of the skeletal system?

Support, Protection, Movement, Mineral Storage, Blood Cell Formation.

What components make up the skeletal system?

Bones, Cartilages, Ligaments, and other connective tissues.

Classify bones and give an example of each type.

Long bones (e.g., femur), Short bones (e.g., wrist bones), Flat bones (e.g., skull), Irregular bones (e.g., vertebrae).

What is the purpose of the epiphyseal line in long bones?

Marks where growth occurred and signals growth completion.

Where is compact bone found, and what is its function?

Found on the outer layer of bones; provides strength and support.

What is the function of red marrow?

Produces blood cells and is found in the spongy bone of long bones.

Describe the structure of flat bones.

Have compact bone layers surrounding spongy bone (diploe) with red marrow; lack medullary cavity, epiphyseal line, and diaphysis.

What are osteoclasts responsible for?

Dissolve bone matrix (osteolysis) to release minerals into the bloodstream.

What is intramembranous ossification?

Process where bone forms directly from connective tissue.

What is the difference between osteoblasts and osteoclasts?

Osteoblasts synthesize new bone matrix, while osteoclasts dissolve bone matrix.

What triggers the release of PTH and its effects on bone?

Stimulates bone breakdown to raise blood calcium when levels are low.

What role do growth hormones play in bone growth?

Stimulates bone growth during childhood and adolescence.

What signifies appositional growth in bone?

Increase in bone width as osteoblasts add bone to the outer surface.

Describe the process of bone repair after a fracture.

1. Hematoma forms; 2. Soft callus forms; 3. Hard callus forms; 4. Excess bone is removed.

What characterizes osteoporosis?

Weak bones due to aging, low calcium, or hormonal changes.

What is the role of the Haversian canal?

Contains blood vessels and nerves that supply nutrients to bone.

What is the periosteum?

The periosteum is a dense layer of vascular connective tissue that covers the outer surface of bones, providing attachment for tendons and ligaments, and playing a role in bone growth and repair.

What is the function and location of the Diaphysis?

The diaphysis is the long, tubular shaft of a long bone, primarily responsible for structural support and weight-bearing.

What is the function and location of the Epiphyseal line?

The epiphyseal line is found at the junction between the epiphysis and diaphysis of a long bone, indicating where growth occurred during childhood and adolescence.

What is the function and location of the endosteum?

The endosteum is a thin membrane lining the inner surface of bones, including the medullary cavity, and is essential for bone growth, repair, and remodeling

What is the function and location of the compact bone?

The compact bone is a dense outer layer of bone that provides strength and structure. It is located beneath the periosteum and surrounds the medullary cavity, protecting the bone's inner structure.

What is the function and location of the spongy bone?

Epiphysis light and has small spaces that hold bone marrow; makes blood cells

What is the function and location of the medullary cavity?

The medullary cavity is a central cavity within the long bones that stores bone marrow, providing a site for fat storage and blood cell production.

What is the function and location of the articular cartilage?

Articular cartilage is a smooth, slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones at joints. It reduces friction and absorbs shock during movement.

What is the function and location of the sharpe's fibers?

Sharpey's fibers are connective tissue fibers that anchor the periosteum to the underlying bone. They provide stability and support to the bone structure.

Describe the structure of spongy bone

Spongy bone, or cancellous bone, has a lattice-like structure made up of trabeculae. It is strong yet lightweight and contains bone marrow in the spaces.