This model shows the microscopic structure of bone.
A- Compact Bone
B - Perforating (Volkmann's) canal
C - Periosteum
D - Spongy bone
E - Haversian System (Osteon)
Spongy bone: Spongy bone has no Haversian systems. Instead the arrangement is
like a web (Trabeculae).
Diaphysis: The shaft of a long bone.
Epiphysis: The end or head of a long bone.
Periosteum: a covering over the surface of the bone. Made of dense connective
tissue.
Articular Cartilage: Hyaline cartilage which covers the epiphyseal surface where a
bone form a joint with another bone. Epiphyseal surfaces which are not part of an
articulating surface are covered by the periosteum.
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The markings on bones (such as tuberosities, lines, crests, and spines) serve
as sites of attachment for muscles and/or ligaments.
Openings in bones (such as foramen, fossa, fissures, etc.) serve as
passageways for blood vessels and/or nerves.
Projections on bones (like heads and condyles) take part in forming joints
Types of Bones
Long Bones: Long bones are made primarily of compact bone, except at the ends
(epiphysis) which has only a thin layer of compact bone covering a great deal of
spongy bone. Examples of long bones include the humerus and femur. They are
bones that are longer than they are wide.
Short Bones: These are bones shaped like the carpals and tarsal, and contain mostly
spongy bone.
Flat Bones: Examples of flat bones are those of the skull. Contain spongy bone in
between surrounding layers of compact bone.
Irregular Bones: Examples are the vertebrae.