Human Anatomy and Physiology: Bones and Skeletal Tissues

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on human anatomy and physiology focusing on bones and skeletal tissues.

What are the two main divisions of the skeletal system?

Axial skeleton and Appendicular skeleton.

How many bones are in the adult human body?

206 bones.

What types of cartilage make up the skeletal system?

Hyaline cartilage, elastic cartilage, and fibrocartilage.

What is the function of hyaline cartilage?

Provides support, flexibility, and resilience.

Where is elastic cartilage found in the body?

In the external ear and the epiglottis.

What is the primary function of fibrocartilage?

Provides tensile strength and absorbs compressive shock.

What are the two processes of cartilage growth?

Appositional growth and interstitial growth.

What are the classifications of bones by shape?

Long bones, short bones, flat bones, and irregular bones.

What are the main functions of bones in the skeletal system?

Support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell formation, and energy storage.

What distinguishes compact bone from spongy bone?

Compact bone is dense with osteons, while spongy bone has a mesh-like structure filled with red bone marrow.

What do osteoblasts do?

Osteoblasts are bone-forming cells that secrete bone matrix.

What is unique about the structure of long bones?

They consist of a diaphysis (shaft) and epiphyses (ends), with a central medullary cavity.

What is the periosteum?

A dense irregular connective tissue that covers the surface of bones.

What are lacunae in relation to bone anatomy?

Lacunae are small cavities that contain osteocytes.

What is the main inorganic component of bone?

Hydroxyapatite, mainly composed of calcium phosphate crystals.

What type of cells break down bone matrix?

Osteoclasts.

What is the significance of trabeculae in spongy bone?

They align along lines of stress and help in supporting the bone structure without the need for osteons.