Final answer:
Bone is a connective tissue that contains collagen fibers and mineralized ground substance. The collagen fibers provide flexibility, while the mineralized substances give bones hardness and strength.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bone is a connective tissue that has a rigid extracellular matrix containing collagen fibers and mineralized ground substance. The collagen fibers provide flexibility and prevent bones from being brittle, while the mineralized ground substance, mainly hydroxyapatite crystals, gives them hardness and strength. Without these components, bones would be less durable and less able to support the body.