Compact Bone, Which is Very Dense and Hard, is Found

Question

Compact bone, which is very dense and hard, is found _______, where great strength is needed.
A) in small cavities called lacunae
B) within the epiphyses
C) in the ribs only
D) near the surface of the bone

Accepted Answer

Compact bone is found near the surface of the bone, where it provides strength and protection. It is typically found in the diaphysis (shaft) of long bones, as well as the outer layers of other bones. Lacunae are small spaces within bone tissue that contain osteocytes (mature bone cells), but they are not associated with compact bone specifically. Epiphyses are the rounded ends of long bones that articulate with other bones, and they are typically composed of spongy bone surrounded by a thin layer of compact bone. The statement that compact bone is found "in the ribs only" is incorrect; compact bone is found in various bones throughout the body.