This document is a chapter from a textbook on anatomy and physiology. It covers the skeletal system, including bones and joints. The key points are:
1. The skeletal system includes bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilages. Bones provide structure, protection, movement, mineral storage, and blood cell production.
2. Bones are composed of an extracellular matrix containing collagen fibers and minerals like calcium phosphate. The matrix composition determines the properties of different connective tissues.
3. There are four bone shapes - long, short, flat, and irregular. Long bones have a diaphysis shaft and epiphysis ends, with red marrow, yellow marrow, and growth plates. Bone growth occurs through