Long Bone Structure

Question 1

Describe the diaphysis

Answer 1

The middle section / shaft of the bone

Question 2

Describe the epiphysis

Answer 2

The end points where joints form

Question 3

Describe the growth plate / epiphyseal plate

Answer 3

• situated between the diaphysis and epiphysis
• fused and inactive in adults
• where bone growth takes place in children and teenagers

Question 4

Describe compact bone

Answer 4

• forms the diaphysis

- dense and very strong

Question 5

Describe cancellous bone

Answer 5

• makes up the epiphysis
• honeycomb structure
• light but still strong

Question 6

Describe the periosteum

Answer 6

• forms a thin protective fibrous sheath around the bone but not over the ends
• rich supply of blood vessels which bring nutrients to the bone and transfer waste away
• also an attachment point for muscles and tendons

Question 7

Describe the job of the capillaries

Answer 7

To supply blood to the bone and all over the body

Question 8

Describe the bone cavity / medullary cavity

Answer 8

• runs down the middle of the shaft

- contains bone marrow where red and white blood cells are produced

Question 9

What are the eight main structures of a human long bone?

Answer 9

• diaphysis
• epiphysis
• growth plate / epiphyseal plate
• compact bone
• cancellous bone
• periosteum
• capillaries
• bone cavity / medullary cavity