Which term refers to the end of a long bone?

Which term refers to the end of a long bone?

• A. Epiphysis
• B. Diaphysis
• C. Endosteum
• D. Haversian canal

Answer: (A)

The end of a long bone is called the epiphysis. In long bones, the shaft is the diaphysis, while the two ends are the epiphyses. The epiphyses are rounded ends that articulate with other bones at joints and are usually filled with spongy bone covered by a thin layer of compact bone and articular cartilage to reduce friction in joint movement. In children, the region between the epiphysis and the shaft contains the growth plate (epiphyseal plate), which allows lengthwise growth; once growth stops, this plate ossifies to form the epiphyseal line. The other terms describe different parts or features: the diaphysis is the shaft, the endosteum lines the internal surfaces of bone, and the Haversian canal is a tube within compact bone that contains blood vessels and nerves.

The end of a long bone is called the epiphysis. In long bones, the shaft is the diaphysis, while the two ends are the epiphyses. The epiphyses are rounded ends that articulate with other bones at joints and are usually filled with spongy bone covered by a thin layer of compact bone and articular cartilage to reduce friction in joint movement. In children, the region between the epiphysis and the shaft contains the growth plate (epiphyseal plate), which allows lengthwise growth; once growth stops, this plate ossifies to form the epiphyseal line. The other terms describe different parts or features: the diaphysis is the shaft, the endosteum lines the internal surfaces of bone, and the Haversian canal is a tube within compact bone that contains blood vessels and nerves.