Compact Bones

Bone tissue functions as either compact or spongy bone depending on the arrangement of the connective tissue's microstructure. Individual bones contain the harder shell of the compact bone and the spongy bone underneath. Compact bones, or cortical bones, have a denser composition within the calcified matrix because they are filled with both organic and inorganic substances (See Reference 1). Spongy Bones

Spongy bones, also called cancellous bones, are porous because of their arrangement of tissue. They largely live within the epiphysis, or rounded end, of long bones and just inside the compact bone on other bone shapes. A substantial portion of spongy bone is vascular, and blood cells form in areas of red bone marrow. Although this osseous tissue has a softer consistency, it provides much of a bone's strength (See Reference 1). Long Bones

Long bones are characterized as having a greater length than width. This allows them to function as a lever primarily for movement and articulation with other bones. Arms and legs have long bones such as the humerus and femur, but long bones also exist in the smaller fingers and toes. They have a rounded end covered in cartilage called the epiphysis that moves against joints (See Reference 1). Short Bones

Short bones are of similar length and width because they work as stabilizers in areas of necessary strength. Typical short bones include the carpals and tarsals found in wrists and ankles. Sesamoid bones, located where tendons pass over joints, are often considered short bones (See Reference 1). Flat Bones Flat bones act like a hard surface to shield and protect organs from harm. They also attach to muscles in the chest or skull. The scapula, or shoulder blade, is a flat bone. Much of an adult's red blood cell count is formed within the bone marrow of flat bones (See Reference 1). Irregular BonesIrregular bones are those that do not fit any of the former three shape categories. Vertebrae bones are irregular and have the specific function of protecting nervous tissue while contributing to balance and support (See Reference 1). Bone is the substance that forms the skeleton of the body. It is composed chiefly of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate. It also serves as a storage area for calcium, playing a large role in calcium balance in the blood. The 206 bones in the body serve several other purposes. They support and protect internal organs (for example, the skull protects the brain and the ribs protect the lungs). Muscles pull against bones to make the body move. Bone marrow, the soft, spongy tissue in the center of many bones, makes and stores blood cells. . skeletal system - the hard structure (bones and cartilages) that provides a frame for the body of an animal systema skeletale, skeleton, frame system - a group of physiologically or anatomically related organs or parts; "the body has a system of organs for digestion" musculoskeletal system - the system of muscles and tendons and ligaments and bones and joints and associated tissues that move the body and maintain its form skeletal structure - any structure created by the skeleton of an organism endoskeleton - the internal skeleton; bony and cartilaginous structure (especially of vertebrates) exoskeleton - the exterior protective or supporting structure or shell of many animals (especially invertebrates) including bony or horny parts such as nails or scales or hoofs