Skip to main content
Ch. 6 Bones and Bone Structure
Martini - Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology 11th Edition
Martini, Nath, Bartholomew11th EditionFundamentals of Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136874089Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 6, Problem 15

List the organic and inorganic components of bone matrix.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the bone matrix is composed of both organic and inorganic components, each contributing to the bone's structure and function.
Identify the organic components, which primarily include collagen fibers (mostly type I collagen) that provide tensile strength and flexibility to the bone.
Recognize other organic substances such as proteoglycans and glycoproteins that help maintain the matrix and facilitate mineralization.
Identify the inorganic components, mainly hydroxyapatite crystals, which are composed of calcium phosphate and provide hardness and rigidity to the bone.
Note that other inorganic ions like calcium carbonate and small amounts of magnesium, sodium, and fluoride are also part of the mineral content in the bone matrix.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
2m
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

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

Bone Matrix Composition

The bone matrix is the intercellular substance of bone tissue, consisting of organic and inorganic components. It provides structural support and strength to bones, enabling them to perform their functions effectively.
Recommended video:

Organic Components of Bone Matrix

Organic components mainly include collagen fibers (primarily type I collagen) and ground substance made of proteoglycans and glycoproteins. These provide flexibility and tensile strength, allowing bones to resist stretching and twisting forces.
Recommended video:

Inorganic Components of Bone Matrix

Inorganic components are primarily mineral salts, mainly hydroxyapatite crystals (calcium phosphate), which give bones their hardness and rigidity. These minerals enable bones to bear weight and resist compression.
Recommended video: