What is another name for compact bone?

• A. Cancellous bone
• B. Compact bone
• C. Periosteum
• D. Marrow

Answer: (B)

Dense outer layer of bone is called cortical bone, also known as compact bone. They are two terms for the same dense, solid shell that provides strength and rigidity to bone, protecting the inner structures. The other terms refer to different parts of bone: cancellous bone is the porous, spongy interior that helps reduce weight and houses bone marrow; periosteum is the fibrous membrane that covers the bone's outer surface; marrow is the soft tissue inside the bone cavity responsible for blood cell formation.