bone functions
shape
bones give the body its structure
support
the bones of the legs, pelvis, and vertebral column support the body and hold it upright
protection
bones protect delicate internal organs (heart, lungs, brain, spinal cord, etc)
movement
the interaction between muscles and bones gives us the ability to move our arms and legs and breath
electrolyte balance
bones store and release minerals (ie calcium & phosphorus) necessary for chemical reactions throughout the body
blood production
bones encase blood marrow, a major site of blood cell formation
acid-base balance
bone absorbs and releases alkaline salts to help maintain a stable pH
strength
bone is as strong as steel and as light as aluminum
long bones
short bones
flat bones
irregular bones
epiphysis
diaphysis
articular cartilage
medullary cavity
the central hollow portion of a bone
endosteum
a thin epithelial membrane that lines the inside of the medullary cavity
periosteum
epiphyseal plate
osteomyelitis
osteoblasts
help form bone by secreting substances that comprise the bone’s matrix
osteoclasts
dissolve unwanted or unhealthy bone
osteocytes