What is Bone vs Cartilage? What does each one do? How are they different from each other? Learn all you need to know about them here, including anatomy & functions, applications, types, uses, and more.
What is a Bone?
Bone is a dense connective tissue found throughout the body. Cartilage is a rubbery material that covers joints and protects them from friction. Bone is also called osseous tissue because it contains calcium phosphate crystals (calcium phosphates). Cartilage is known as hyaline tissue because it has high water content.
What is Cartilage?
Cartilage is composed of collagen fibers embedded in a gel-like substance called proteoglycan. The main function of cartilage is to provide support and protection to bones. It cushions the ends of long bones, such as those in your arms and legs, while allowing them to move freely. In addition, it helps protect the ends of some other bones, including the ends of your ribs and skull.
Types of cartilage
Cartilage can be divided into two types: hyaline cartilage and fibrocartilage. Hyaline cartilage is soft and spongy, like rubber. Fibrochratic cartilage is firm and tough. Both types are made up of cells called chondrocytes. Chondrocytes produce matrix proteins that help give cartilage its properties.
The most common type of cartilage is hyaline cartilage. This type of cartilage is found at the end of long bones and on the surface of many organs and structures. Hyaline cartilage provides structure and strength to these areas. For example, hyaline cartilage forms the protective lining around the nose and ears. It also makes up part of the joint surfaces where bones meet.
Layers of Hyaline cartilage
Hyaline cartilage consists of three layers. The middle layer is called the zone of calcified cartilage. Calcification means "to become hard." This layer is very thick and strong. It acts as a shock absorber for the rest of the cartilage. The outermost layer is called the articular or growth plate. This layer is thin and flexible. It allows the ends of long bones to grow by absorbing nutrients through the blood vessels that run along the outside of the bone.
Fibrous cartilage is less common than hyaline cartilage. Fibrous cartilage is found mainly in the ear, nose, trachea, larynx, and bronchi. Unlike hyaline cartilage, this type of cartilage lacks an external vascular supply. Instead, it gets its nutrition from the surrounding tissues.
Fibrous cartilage is made up of collagen fibers arranged in parallel bundles. These bundles form a meshwork of fibers that gives the cartilage its firmness. Fibrous cartilage differs from hyaline cartilage in that there is no calcified layer.
Frequency Asked Questions
How much bone does the average person have?
A normal adult human skeleton contains about 7 pounds of bone.
Why do we need bones?
Bones provide support and protection for our bodies. They allow us to stand upright, walk, bend over, and sit down. Bones also act as a storage place for minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus.
Where do bones come from?
Bones develop during childhood. During puberty, new bone grows in response to hormonal changes. After adolescence, bone formation slows down. Bone loss occurs when you lose weight. Bones may also break apart if they're subjected to too much stress.
What happens to bones after death?
After death, the body's fluids begin to evaporate. As water leaves the body, the skin dries out. When the skin becomes dry, it shrinks and pulls away from the underlying muscles and organs. If the body has been exposed to extreme temperatures, the skin will crack open.