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

Previous problemNext problem

Problem 6

Textbook Question

The branching pieces of bone in spongy bone are called:

a. Lamellae
b. Lacunae
c. Osteoclasts
d. Trabeculae

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the structure of spongy bone. Spongy bone, also known as cancellous bone, is characterized by a porous, lattice-like structure that provides strength while reducing weight. This structure is made up of branching pieces of bone tissue.

Step 2: Review the term 'trabeculae.' Trabeculae are the small, beam-like structures that form the lattice framework of spongy bone. They are aligned along lines of stress to provide structural support and house bone marrow.

Step 3: Differentiate trabeculae from other terms in the options. For example, 'lamellae' are concentric rings of bone matrix found in compact bone, not spongy bone. 'Lacunae' are small spaces that house osteocytes, and 'osteoclasts' are bone-resorbing cells, not structural components.

Step 4: Match the correct term to the description in the question. The branching pieces of bone in spongy bone are trabeculae, as they form the characteristic lattice structure.

Step 5: Confirm your understanding by visualizing or referencing a diagram of spongy bone to see how trabeculae contribute to its structure and function.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

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

Spongy Bone Structure

Spongy bone, also known as cancellous bone, is a type of bone tissue characterized by a porous, lattice-like structure. This architecture provides strength while minimizing weight, allowing for efficient support and flexibility. It is primarily found in the interior of bones and is crucial for the production of blood cells in the bone marrow.

Trabeculae

Trabeculae are the small, rod-like or plate-like structures that form the framework of spongy bone. They create a network that supports the bone's overall structure and houses bone marrow. Trabeculae are essential for distributing stress and forces throughout the bone, enhancing its strength and resilience.

Bone Cells

Bone cells, including osteoblasts, osteocytes, and osteoclasts, play vital roles in bone formation, maintenance, and resorption. Osteoblasts are responsible for building new bone, osteocytes maintain bone tissue, and osteoclasts break down bone. Understanding these cells is crucial for comprehending how bones adapt to stress and repair themselves.

Watch next

Master Trabeculae with a bite sized video explanation from Bruce Bryan

Start learning