Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

What are mature bone particles that form minerals and compact bone called?

1. Osteocyte

2. Osteoblast

3. Osteoclast

4. Cementocytes

The correct answer is: Osteoclast

The correct answer refers to osteoblasts as the mature bone particles that form minerals and compact bone. Osteoblasts are specialized cells responsible for bone formation. They synthesize and secrete the bone matrix, which includes collagen and other proteins that become mineralized, leading to the development of compact bone. Osteocytes, another type of bone cell, originate from osteoblasts after they become embedded in the bone matrix. They play a crucial role in maintaining bone health but do not actively form the bone matrix like osteoblasts do. Osteoclasts, on the other hand, are involved in the resorption of bone tissue, helping to break down old or damaged bone. Cementocytes are found in cementum, a specialized bony substance covering the roots of teeth, and are not directly related to the formation of compact bone. This distinction highlights the unique roles that each cell type plays in bone metabolism and structure.