Chapter 6 - The Skeletal System

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key terms and structures of Chapter 6 - The Skeletal System.

Amphiarthrosis

A slightly movable joint, such as an intervertebral disc or the pubic symphysis.

Appendicular skeleton

The division of the skeleton that includes the bones of the upper and lower limbs and the supporting pectoral and pelvic girdles.

Articulation

A joint; the point of contact or junction between two or more bones.

Axial skeleton

The central framework of the skeleton that forms the longitudinal axis of the body, including the skull, vertebral column, and thoracic cage.

Bursa

packets of connective tissue containing synovial fluid

Compact bone

Dense, hard bone tissue that forms the sturdy outer layer of all bones and provides strength and protection.

Diaphysis

The tubular shaft or central elongated section of a long bone.

Diarthrosis

A freely movable joint, characteristic of synovial joints such as the shoulder, knee, and hip.

Epiphysis

The expanded end of a long bone, typically wider than the shaft and articulating with another bone.

Fracture

Any break, crack, or rupture in a bone.

Ligament

A tough band of fibrous connective tissue that connects one bone to another bone, stabilizing joints.

Marrow cavity

The hollow internal space within the diaphysis of a long bone that houses bone marrow; also known as the medullary cavity.

Meniscus

A crescent-shaped pad of fibrocartilage located within certain synovial joints (such as the knee) that cushions and distributes body weight.

Ossification

The biological process of bone tissue formation and development.

Osteoblast

• Produce new bone through a process called ossification

Osteoclast

Large cells that secrete acid and enzymes that break down the matrix

Osteocyte

Mature cells that maintain bone structure by recycling calcium salts

Osteon

The fundamental microscopic, cylindrical structural unit of compact bone, also called a Haversian system.

Periosteum

A dense, double-layered connective tissue membrane that covers the outer surface of bones, except at articular joint surfaces. Is the outer covering of bone

Spongy bone

Porous, lightweight bone tissue composed of a lattice of branching trabeculae containing red bone marrow; also called cancellous bone.

Synarthrosis

An immovable joint that permits no movement under normal conditions, such as the sutures of the skull.

Synovial fluid

A viscous, slippery fluid secreted by the synovial membrane that lubricates joint surfaces, reduces friction, and nourishes articular cartilage.