Skeletal Tissues: Cartilage and Bone

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to skeletal tissues, including cartilage, bone, and related processes.

Cartilage

Semi-rigid connective tissue that provides support but is more flexible than bone.

Haversian system

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

Ossification

The process of bone formation in the body.

Epiphyseal plate

Growth plate in long bones where lengthwise growth occurs, composed of hyaline cartilage.

Interstitial growth

Type of cartilage growth that occurs from within.

Appositional growth

Type of growth that adds new layers of cartilage at the surface.

Chondrocytes

Mature cartilage cells that maintain the cartilage matrix and reside in lacunae.

Osteoblasts

Bone cells responsible for forming new bone matrix.

Osteoclasts

Large cells that break down bone tissue, involved in bone resorption.

Compact bone

Dense and solid type of bone that forms the outer layer of bone.

Spongy bone

Less dense type of bone that consists of a network of trabeculae, found inside bones.

Fracture

A break in the continuity of a bone.

Calcification

The process of depositing minerals in the bone matrix, making it hard.

Fibrocartilage

A tough type of cartilage that is durable and found in intervertebral discs.

Hyaline cartilage

A smooth type of cartilage that reduces friction at joints and serves as a precursor for bone.

Elastic cartilage

A flexible type of cartilage found in structures like the ear.

Matrix

The extracellular substance that provides structure and support for tissues.

Hormones

Chemical messengers that influence bone growth and maintenance.

Vitamin D

A vitamin that promotes calcium absorption necessary for bone growth and development.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions, important for overall bone health.