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Ch. 6 Bones and Bone Tissue
Amerman - Human Anatomy & Physiology 2nd Edition
Amerman2nd EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136873822Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 6, Problem 4c

Mark the following statements about bone tissue as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.


c. Collagen fibers are one of the predominant parts of the inorganic matrix.

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1
Understand the composition of bone tissue, which consists of two main components: the organic matrix and the inorganic matrix. The organic matrix is primarily made up of collagen fibers, while the inorganic matrix is composed mainly of hydroxyapatite crystals (calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate).
Analyze the statement: 'Collagen fibers are one of the predominant parts of the inorganic matrix.' Collagen fibers are part of the organic matrix, not the inorganic matrix. This makes the statement false.
Correct the false statement: Replace 'inorganic matrix' with 'organic matrix' to make the statement true. The corrected statement would be: 'Collagen fibers are one of the predominant parts of the organic matrix.'
Review the role of collagen fibers in the organic matrix. Collagen provides tensile strength and flexibility to bone tissue, preventing it from becoming brittle.
Summarize the corrected understanding: Collagen fibers are a key component of the organic matrix, while the inorganic matrix is primarily responsible for the hardness and rigidity of bone due to its mineral content.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Bone Tissue Composition

Bone tissue is primarily composed of an organic matrix and an inorganic matrix. The organic matrix, mainly made up of collagen fibers, provides flexibility and tensile strength, while the inorganic matrix, primarily consisting of hydroxyapatite, gives bone its hardness and rigidity.
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Specialized Connective Tissue: Bone Example 1

Collagen in Bone

Collagen is a crucial protein in the organic matrix of bone tissue, accounting for about 90% of the organic component. It plays a vital role in maintaining the structural integrity and flexibility of bones, allowing them to withstand various stresses without breaking.
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Inorganic Matrix of Bone

The inorganic matrix of bone is primarily composed of mineral salts, particularly hydroxyapatite, which is a crystalline structure that provides strength and rigidity. This matrix is essential for the overall mechanical properties of bone, enabling it to support weight and resist deformation.
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