The Structure of Long Bone
Bones aren’t just for dogs to chew on, they are living tissue with a complex structure that consists of the following components.
Cancellous bone (spongy bone)
This part of the bone gives it elastic strength to resist compression forces.
Compact bone
This part of the bone is solid, strong and resistant to bending.
Diaphysis
This refers to the shaft of the bone.
Epiphysis
This refers to the expanded portion at each end of the bone.
Epiphyseal plates
These are found between the diaphysis and the epiphysis allowing to the diaphysis to increase in length until adulthood.
Hyaline cartilage
Hyaline cartilage covers the ends of bone and acts as a shock absorber.
Medullary cavity
This is the the hollow tube that runs down the centre (diaphysis) of the bone and contains marrow.
Periosteum
A tough fibrous sheath covering the whole bone.
Red marrow
Red marrow is responsible for the production of red and white blood cells.
Yellow marrow
Yellow marrow is used for the storage of fat.
Now see how many you can remember below.
