The growth of bones in length occurs due to epiphyseal plate by a process similar to that of endochondral ossification. In the region of epiphyseal plate next to the epiphysis the cartilage continues to grow in that region by mitosis. I the region next to the diaphysis the chondrocytes age and degenerate. Bone is formed when osteoblasts move and ossify the matrix. The process is carried on until the growth of cartilage slows down and finally stops. After the ceasing of cartilage growth only a thin epiphyseal line remains and bones stop growing in length further.