Question

Red bone marrow is involved in erythrocyte function, whereas yellow bone marrow A. is involved in leukocyte formation. B. is involved in draining lymph. C. is involved in spicule formation. D. contains adipose tissue.

Short answer

D. contains adipose tissue.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Function of Red Bone Marrow

Recall that red bone marrow is responsible for producing erythrocytes (red blood cells).

Determine Key Characteristics of Yellow Bone Marrow

Understand that yellow bone marrow primarily stores adipose tissue, which is fat.

Compare Options with Known Functions

Review the given options to identify which one aligns with yellow bone marrow containing adipose tissue.

Select the Correct Answer

Given that yellow bone marrow contains adipose tissue, the correct answer is D.

Key concepts

red bone marrow

Red bone marrow plays a crucial role in your body because it is responsible for producing blood cells. It creates erythrocytes, better known as red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen throughout your body and remove carbon dioxide. Red bone marrow also facilitates differentiation and maturation of other blood cells like leukocytes (white blood cells). It is found mainly in the flat bones such as the pelvis, sternum, and the ends of long bones.
The bone marrow provides the necessary environment for stem cells to mature into functional cells. Understanding the importance of red bone marrow helps in grasping how essential it is for overall health.

yellow bone marrow

Yellow bone marrow is different from red bone marrow in several ways. Its primary function is to store fat, which is why it contains a large amount of adipose tissue. This type of bone marrow is found mainly in the central cavities of long bones, such as the femur and humerus.
Over time, some of the red bone marrow in our body converts to yellow bone marrow. While it doesn’t directly participate in the creation of blood cells, it serves as an important energy reserve. In some extreme cases, yellow bone marrow can transform back into red bone marrow if the body needs to produce more blood cells, such as during severe blood loss.

adipose tissue

Adipose tissue is a type of connective tissue that is primarily made up of fat cells, or adipocytes. It is vital for storing energy in the form of fat, which can be metabolized when the body requires extra fuel. Adipose tissue also provides insulation, helping to maintain body temperature, and it acts as a cushion to protect organs from mechanical damage.
In the context of yellow bone marrow, adipose tissue serves as the primary component. It helps to maintain the structure and function of muscles and bones by providing necessary fats that are then metabolized into energy. In diets and health discussions, you'll often hear about the importance of balancing the amount and types of fats, emphasizing the role that adipose tissue plays in overall health.