Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

What is one of the primary functions of bone?

1. Production of hormones

2. Formation of blood cells

3. Storage of energy

4. Absorption of nutrients

The correct answer is: Formation of blood cells

One of the primary functions of bone is the formation of blood cells, a process known as hematopoiesis. This occurs within the bone marrow, a spongy tissue found in the center of bones, particularly in larger bones such as the femur, sternum, and pelvis. In the bone marrow, stem cells give rise to red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, all of which are essential components of the circulatory and immune systems. This function highlights the critical role bones play not just in providing structure and support to the body but also in ensuring that the necessary components for oxygen transport, immune defense, and blood clotting are produced. The other options, while they may involve processes in the body, do not directly pertain to the primary roles of bone. For instance, while certain types of hormones are involved in regulating bone metabolism, bones themselves are not a primary site for hormone production. Similarly, while fat storage can occur in the marrow, energy storage is not considered a primary function of bone, nor do bones themselves directly absorb nutrients from food.