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Describe the chemical composition of bone and distinguish between its organic and inorganic components.

A) Bone is composed primarily of organic materials.
B) The inorganic component of bone provides flexibility.
C) Collagen is a major inorganic component.
D) Hydroxyapatite is a key organic component.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Bone is composed of organic and inorganic components. Collagen fibers, the primary organic component, provide flexibility and strength. Hydroxyapatite crystals, the main inorganic part, give bones their hardness and structural support.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chemical composition of bone consists of both organic and inorganic components. The organic part, accounting for approximately 35% of the bone mass, is mainly made up of collagen fibers which provide strength and flexibility to bone tissue. The inorganic portion, making up the remaining 65%, includes the hydroxyapatite crystals formed from calcium and phosphorus salts. These minerals give bones their hardness and structural strength. Collagen's flexibility prevents bones from being brittle, while the hydroxyapatite offers resistance and rigidity.

Now, to address the specific statements: A) Bone is not composed primarily of organic materials, since about 65% of bone's composition is inorganic. B) The organic component of bone, particularly collagen, provides flexibility, not the inorganic component. C) Collagen is a major organic component, not inorganic. D) Hydroxyapatite is incorrectly identified as organic; it is a key inorganic component of bone.

User Dzmitry Hubin
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