Differences between Compact and Spongy Bone
The main features which highlight the difference between Compact and Spongy bone are given below:-
|
Features |
Compact Bone |
Spongy Bone |
|---|---|---|
| Other Name | Cortical Bone | Cancellous/ Trabecular Bone |
|
Location |
The outer layer of long bones |
The inner layer of flat and irregular bones |
|
Structure |
Dense, solid, and compact |
Soft, Porous, and honeycomb-like structure |
|
Weight |
Heavier due to denser structure |
Lighter since it is porous |
|
Lamellae |
Composed of concentric layers of matrix |
Composed of thin, branching bony plates (trabeculae) |
|
Canals |
Contains Haversian and Volkmann canals |
Does not contain Haversian and Volkmann canals |
|
Vascularity |
Highly vascularized |
Limited blood supply compared to compact bone |
|
Function |
Provides strength, support, and protection |
Facilitates shock absorption, reduces weight, and enables the metabolic exchange |
|
Bone Marrow |
Contains Yellow bone marrow (contains adipose tissue) |
Contains Red marrow (contains stem cells for hemopoiesis) |
|
Location in Long bones |
Forms the Diaphysis (shaft) of long bones |
Forms the Epiphysis (ends) of long bones |
Difference Between Compact And Spongy Bones
Compact and Spongy Bone are two primary types of bone tissues. Compact bone forms the outer layer of long bones and provides strength, support, and protection. On the other hand, spongy bone forms the inner layer of flat and irregular bones and contributes to shock absorption, reducing weight, and facilitating metabolic exchange. These bone structure differences are the reason for the classification.
Table of Content
- Differences between Compact and Spongy Bone
- What is Compact Bone?
- What is Spongy Bone?
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