Skeletal System

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the skeletal system, including its structure, functions, and development.

Skeletal System

Composed of bones, cartilage, and connective tissues that support and protect body structures.

Axial Skeleton

The part of the skeletal system that includes the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage.

Appendicular Skeleton

The part of the skeletal system that includes the bones of the limbs and girdles.

Long Bones

Bones that are long and narrow with expanded ends.

Short Bones

Cube-like bones where length equals width.

Flat Bones

Plate-like bones with broad surfaces.

Irregular Bones

Bones that have various shapes and connect to several other bones.

Epiphysis

The expanded end of a long bone.

Diaphysis

The shaft of a long bone.

Metaphysis

The widening part of a long bone between the diaphysis and epiphysis.

Osteocytes

Mature bone cells housed in lacunae.

Lacunae

Chambers in bone tissue occupied by osteocytes.

Canaliculi

Tiny passageways that allow for nutrient and waste exchange between osteocytes.

Hematopoiesis

The process of blood cell formation occurring in red bone marrow.

Osteoporosis

A condition characterized by loss of bone mineral density.

Intramembranous Ossification

The process where flat bones form by replacing connective tissue.

Endochondral Ossification

The process where long bones form from hyaline cartilage models.

Osteoblasts

Bone-forming cells that deposit bone matrix.

Osteoclasts

Cells that break down bone tissue.

Parathyroid Hormone

Hormone that regulates calcium levels and stimulates osteoclast activity.

Calcitonin

Hormone that helps lower blood calcium levels and inhibits osteoclasts.

Epiphyseal Plate

A band of cartilage that allows for bone lengthening during growth.

Fragility Fracture

A fracture occurring from a fall from standing height or lower, indicating low bone density.

Vitamin D

Essential nutrient for calcium absorption; deficiency can lead to rickets.

Vitamin A

Important for osteoblast and osteoclast activity; deficiency can hinder bone development.

Collagen

Protein that provides resilience and structure to bone.