Bone and Cartilage Physiology · Zoology

Which of the following describes 'Appositional growth' in bone?

  1. Bone growth in length occurring at the epiphyseal plate
  2. Increase in bone diameter by adding new matrix at the periosteal surface
  3. Repair of a fracture through the formation of fibrocartilage callus
  4. Reduction of bone density caused by prolonged Vitamin D deficiency
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Increase in bone diameter by adding new matrix at the periosteal surface

Appositional growth is the process by which bones grow wider. Osteoblasts in the periosteum secrete new matrix while osteoclasts in the endosteum resorb bone, allowing the bone to thicken without becoming excessively heavy.

Difficulty: Medium Question 12 of 20

Practice all 20 Bone and Cartilage Physiology questions

Keep practicing

More Bone and Cartilage Physiology questions