Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue

Gross Anatomy of Bones - Structure of a Long Bone

Anatomy & Physiology

6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue

Gross Anatomy of Bones - Structure of a Long Bone

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2:53 minutes

Problem 13

Textbook Question

What are the primary parts of a typical long bone?

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the diaphysis, which is the shaft or central part of the long bone. It is composed primarily of compact bone and contains the medullary cavity filled with yellow bone marrow.

Examine the epiphyses, which are the rounded ends of the long bone. These are made of spongy bone (trabecular bone) and are covered by a thin layer of compact bone. The epiphyses are involved in forming joints and are covered with articular cartilage to reduce friction.

Understand the metaphysis, the region between the diaphysis and the epiphyses. In growing bones, this area contains the epiphyseal plate (growth plate), which is responsible for longitudinal growth. In adults, it becomes the epiphyseal line.

Recognize the periosteum, a dense layer of vascular connective tissue that surrounds the outer surface of the bone, except at the joints. It provides nourishment, attachment for tendons and ligaments, and plays a role in bone repair and growth.

Note the endosteum, a thin membrane lining the inner surface of the medullary cavity. It contains osteoblasts and osteoclasts, which are involved in bone remodeling and maintenance.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Diaphysis

The diaphysis is the long, tubular shaft of a long bone, primarily composed of compact bone. It provides structural support and houses the medullary cavity, which contains bone marrow. The diaphysis is crucial for the overall strength and stability of the bone.

Epiphysis

The epiphysis refers to the rounded ends of a long bone, which articulate with adjacent bones at joints. Each epiphysis is covered with articular cartilage to reduce friction and absorb shock during movement. The epiphysis also contains spongy bone and red marrow, contributing to blood cell production.

Metaphysis

The metaphysis is the region between the diaphysis and epiphysis, where bone growth occurs during development. It contains the growth plate, or epiphyseal plate, which is responsible for the lengthening of bones in children and adolescents. Once growth is complete, the growth plate ossifies and becomes the epiphyseal line.