The organic component to bone which comprises the flexible, tensile strength to bone is:
The correct answer and explanation is:
The organic component of bone that provides flexibility and tensile strength is collagen.
Explanation (300 words):
Bone is a composite tissue made up of both organic and inorganic components, each contributing uniquely to its strength and function. The organic matrix primarily consists of collagen, a fibrous protein, along with some non-collagenous proteins and ground substance.
Collagen Type I is the predominant collagen type in bone, making up about 90% of the organic bone matrix. It forms a triple helix structure that assembles into strong fibrils. These collagen fibrils provide flexibility and tensile strength to the bone, allowing it to resist stretching and bending forces. Without collagen, bone would be very brittle and prone to fracturing easily.
The organic matrix acts as a scaffold for mineral deposition. Bone minerals, mainly hydroxyapatite crystals (calcium phosphate), are deposited within and around the collagen fibrils. This mineralization gives bone its hardness and compressive strength. However, minerals alone are rigid and brittle. The collagen matrix provides the necessary elasticity and toughness by absorbing energy during mechanical stresses.
This combination of collagen and minerals creates a composite material optimized for both rigidity and flexibility, enabling bones to support the body’s weight while also withstanding various stresses from movement and impact.
Furthermore, collagen in bone undergoes continuous remodeling throughout life. Osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) secrete collagen, which later becomes mineralized, while osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells) break down the bone matrix during remodeling.
In summary, collagen is essential to bone’s tensile strength and flexibility. It gives bone the capacity to bend slightly without breaking, making bones both strong and resilient.