Lab 6 The Skeletal System BIO201L
Straighterline Anatomy and Physiology 1 Lab
BIO201L Lab 6 The Skeletal System Worksheet 2023
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Pre-Lab Questions:
1. List the functions of the skeletal system.
The skeletal system serves several important functions in the body. Firstly, it provides structural
support, giving shape and form to the body and supporting the organs. Secondly, it facilitates
movement by serving as attachment points for muscles and allowing for joint mobility.
Additionally, the skeletal system protects vital organs, such as the brain, heart, and lungs, from
injury. It also plays a crucial role in hematopoiesis, the production of blood cells, taking place in
the bone marrow. Moreover, the skeletal system stores minerals, such as calcium and
phosphorus, which are essential for various physiological processes. Finally, the skeletal system
contributes to maintaining homeostasis by regulating the levels of minerals in the blood and
participating in acid-base balance.
2. What material contributes the greatest to the compressive strength of
bone? calcium carbonate
3. Briefly describe the process of bone remodeling.
Bone remodeling is a continuous and dynamic process that involves the removal of old bone
tissue and the deposition of new bone tissue. It is carried out by two types of cells: osteoclasts,
responsible for bone resorption, and osteoblasts, responsible for bone formation. The process
begins with the activation of osteoclasts, which break down and remove old or damaged bone
tissue through a process called resorption. This creates small cavities or "Howship's lacunae" in
the bone. Subsequently, osteoblasts migrate to the resorption site and start synthesizing new
bone matrix, which consists of collagen fibers and mineral salts. This process is known as bone
deposition. Osteoblasts eventually become surrounded by the newly formed bone matrix and
transform into osteocytes, which maintain and regulate the bone tissue. Bone remodeling
occurs throughout life, helping to repair micro-damage, maintain bone strength, and adapt to
mechanical stresses. It is influenced by various factors, including hormonal regulation,
mechanical loading, and calcium homeostasis [Show Less]