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 - Trabeculae

Anatomy & Physiology

6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue

Microscopic Anatomy of Bones - Trabeculae

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Problem 5

Textbook Question

The subunit of compact bone is the _ . It consists of rings of bone matrix called that surround a structure called the that contains blood vessels and nerves. Other structures called _also contain blood vessels and nerves. Osteocytes are housed in_and communicate via_____.

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the subunit of compact bone, which is the structural and functional unit of compact bone tissue. This is known as the osteon (or Haversian system).

Understand that the osteon consists of concentric rings of bone matrix called lamellae. These rings are arranged around a central canal.

Recognize that the central canal (Haversian canal) is the structure within the osteon that contains blood vessels and nerves, providing nutrients and communication to the bone cells.

Note that other structures, called perforating canals (Volkmann's canals), also contain blood vessels and nerves. These canals run perpendicular to the central canals and connect them, facilitating communication between osteons.

Learn that osteocytes, the mature bone cells, are housed in small spaces called lacunae. These osteocytes communicate with each other and exchange nutrients and waste through tiny channels called canaliculi, which connect the lacunae to each other and to the central canal.

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Key Concepts

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

Osteon

The osteon, or Haversian system, is the fundamental structural unit of compact bone. It consists of concentric rings of bone matrix, known as lamellae, which surround a central canal that contains blood vessels and nerves. This organization allows for efficient nutrient delivery and waste removal, essential for bone health.

Lamellae

Lamellae are the thin layers of bone matrix that form the concentric rings of an osteon. Each lamella is composed of collagen fibers and mineralized matrix, providing strength and resilience to the bone. The arrangement of lamellae contributes to the overall structural integrity of compact bone.

Canaliculi

Canaliculi are tiny channels that connect osteocytes, the mature bone cells, within the bone matrix. These channels allow for the exchange of nutrients and waste products between osteocytes and the central canal, facilitating communication and maintaining bone health. Osteocytes extend their dendritic processes through canaliculi to form a network that supports cellular communication.

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