What describes cancellous bone?

What describes cancellous bone?

• A. A hard exterior layer of bone
• B. A dense, solid structure with no pores
• C. A mesh-like structure with many pores
• D. A type of bone found only in children

Answer: (C)

Cancellous bone, also known as trabecular or spongy bone, is characterized by its mesh-like structure that features many interconnected pores and spaces. This unique architecture allows cancellous bone to be lighter than compact bone while still providing strength and support. The porous nature of cancellous bone contributes to its ability to absorb shock and distribute stress, making it vital for the mechanics of various bones in the body, particularly in areas that experience significant force. In contrast, the hard exterior layer of bone refers to compact bone, which provides strength and stiffness. A dense, solid structure with no pores would describe compact bone rather than cancellous bone. The notion that cancellous bone is found only in children is inaccurate, as this type of bone is present throughout the skeleton of individuals of all ages, though its distribution and density may vary during growth and development. The correct answer highlights the specific and defining features of cancellous bone, emphasizing its structural characteristics that differentiate it from other types of bone within the human body.

Cancellous bone, also known as trabecular or spongy bone, is characterized by its mesh-like structure that features many interconnected pores and spaces. This unique architecture allows cancellous bone to be lighter than compact bone while still providing strength and support. The porous nature of cancellous bone contributes to its ability to absorb shock and distribute stress, making it vital for the mechanics of various bones in the body, particularly in areas that experience significant force.

In contrast, the hard exterior layer of bone refers to compact bone, which provides strength and stiffness. A dense, solid structure with no pores would describe compact bone rather than cancellous bone. The notion that cancellous bone is found only in children is inaccurate, as this type of bone is present throughout the skeleton of individuals of all ages, though its distribution and density may vary during growth and development.

The correct answer highlights the specific and defining features of cancellous bone, emphasizing its structural characteristics that differentiate it from other types of bone within the human body.