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

Microscopic Anatomy of Bones - The Osteon

Anatomy & Physiology

6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue

Microscopic Anatomy of Bones - The Osteon

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1:56 minutes

Problem 4

Textbook Question

The basic functional unit of compact bone is the Haversian system or:
(a) Osteocyte
(b) Osteoclast
(c) Osteon
(d) Osseous matrix
(e) Osseous lamellae

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the structure of compact bone: Compact bone is dense and forms the outer layer of bones. It is organized into repeating structural units called Haversian systems, which are crucial for its function.

Learn the components of the Haversian system: The Haversian system, also known as an osteon, consists of concentric rings of calcified matrix called lamellae, a central canal (Haversian canal) containing blood vessels and nerves, and osteocytes housed in lacunae.

Analyze the options provided: (a) Osteocyte refers to mature bone cells that maintain the bone matrix. (b) Osteoclasts are cells responsible for bone resorption. (c) Osteon is the correct term for the Haversian system. (d) Osseous matrix refers to the non-cellular part of bone tissue. (e) Osseous lamellae are the layers of bone matrix within the osteon.

Match the correct term to the definition: The Haversian system is synonymous with the osteon, which is the basic functional unit of compact bone.

Conclude that the correct answer is (c) osteon, as it directly corresponds to the definition of the Haversian system.

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Key Concepts

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

Haversian System

The Haversian system, also known as the osteon, is the fundamental structural unit of compact bone. It consists of a central canal surrounded by concentric rings of bone matrix, known as lamellae, which contain osteocytes. This system facilitates the delivery of nutrients and removal of waste through the canal, ensuring the health and maintenance of bone tissue.

Osteocytes

Osteocytes are mature bone cells that originate from osteoblasts, which are responsible for bone formation. They reside in small cavities called lacunae within the bone matrix and play a crucial role in maintaining bone tissue by regulating mineral content and communicating with other bone cells through tiny channels called canaliculi.

Osseous Matrix

The osseous matrix is the intercellular substance of bone tissue, composed primarily of collagen fibers and inorganic mineral salts, mainly hydroxyapatite. This matrix provides bone with its strength and rigidity, allowing it to support the body structurally while also being dynamic enough to remodel in response to stress and repair.

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