What is the Difference Between Compact and Cancellous Bone?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between compact and cancellous bone lies in their structure, density, and function. Here are the key differences between the two:
- Structure: Compact bone is made up of closely packed osteons or haversian systems, while cancellous bone is characterized by its spongy, porous, honeycomb-like structure.
- Density: Compact bone is denser and heavier than cancellous bone, which is lighter and less dense.
- Location: Compact bone is found in the outer layer of long bones, forming the shaft or diaphysis, while cancellous bone is located in the middle of the long bones, forming the ends or epiphyses.
- Function: Compact bone provides strength and structure to the body, while cancellous bone is involved in bone marrow production and mineral exchange.
In summary, compact bone is dense and heavy, providing structure and strength, while cancellous bone is light and spongy, facilitating bone marrow production and mineral exchange.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Compact and Cancellous Bone? Comparative Table: Compact vs Cancellous Bone
Comparative Table: Compact vs Cancellous Bone
Here is a table comparing the differences between compact and cancellous (spongy) bones:
| Feature | Compact Bone | Cancellous (Spongy) Bone |
|---|---|---|
| Also Known As | Cortical Bone | Trabecular Bone |
| Nature | Heavy, tough, and compact | Light, soft, and porous |
| Structure | Made up of osteons, which are concentric layers of matrix called lamellae | Made up of trabeculae, which are branching bony plates |
| Function | Provides strength, support, and protection | Facilitates shock absorption, reduces weight, and contributes to metabolic exchange |
| Location | Forms the outer layer of long bones | Forms the inner layer of long bones and the majority of flat and irregular bones |
| Appearance | Smooth and firm | Soft, porous, and honeycomb-like structure |
Compact bones are dense and solid, providing strength and protection, while cancellous bones are porous and light, facilitating shock absorption and reducing the weight of bones.
Read more:
- Cancellous vs Cortical Bone
- Compact Bone vs Spongy Bone
- Trabecular vs Cortical Bone
- Cortical vs Cancellous Screw
- Bone vs Cartilage
- Bone Mass vs Bone Density
- Lamellae vs Lacunae
- Cementocytes vs Osteocytes
- Lacunae vs Osteocytes
- Osteoblasts vs Osteoclasts
- Osteoblasts vs Osteocytes
- Osteon vs Osteocyte
- Cementation vs Compaction
- Calcification vs Ossification
- Osteogenesis Imperfecta vs Osteoporosis
- Chondrocytes vs Osteocytes
- Endochondral Ossification vs Intramembranous Ossification
- Basal Bone vs Alveolar Bone
- Male vs Female Bones