The basic functional unit of compact bone is called which term?

The basic functional unit of compact bone is called which term?

• A. Osteon
• B. Osteoid
• C. Trabecula
• D. Periosteum

Answer: (A)

The basic functional unit of compact bone is the osteon, also called the Haversian system. Each osteon centers on a Haversian canal that houses blood vessels and nerves, and is surrounded by concentric lamellae of mineralized matrix. Osteocytes sit in lacunae between these lamellae and connect through tiny channels called canaliculi, forming a network that allows nutrients and wastes to move to and from the blood supply. This organized, cylindrical arrangement is what gives compact bone its strength and ability to transmit forces along the length of a bone. By comparison, osteoid is the unmineralized organic matrix produced by osteoblasts, trabeculae are the lattice-like plates in spongy bone, and the periosteum is the outer fibrous covering of the bone.

The basic functional unit of compact bone is the osteon, also called the Haversian system. Each osteon centers on a Haversian canal that houses blood vessels and nerves, and is surrounded by concentric lamellae of mineralized matrix. Osteocytes sit in lacunae between these lamellae and connect through tiny channels called canaliculi, forming a network that allows nutrients and wastes to move to and from the blood supply. This organized, cylindrical arrangement is what gives compact bone its strength and ability to transmit forces along the length of a bone. By comparison, osteoid is the unmineralized organic matrix produced by osteoblasts, trabeculae are the lattice-like plates in spongy bone, and the periosteum is the outer fibrous covering of the bone.