Answer
See explanation
Work Step by Step
The medullary cavity is the central cavity of the diaphysis, the long, cylindrical part of the bone. It contains bone marrow, which is a soft, spongy tissue that produces blood cells. The medullary cavity enlarges during growth in thickness through a process called appositional growth.
Appositional growth occurs when new bone tissue is added to the surface of existing bone tissue. Osteoblasts, which are bone-forming cells, produce new bone tissue on the outer surface of the bone. As this new bone tissue is deposited, the medullary cavity gradually enlarges, increasing the diameter of the bone.
At the same time, osteoclasts, which are bone-resorbing cells, break down and remove old bone tissue from the inner surface of the bone, allowing for the expansion of the medullary cavity. This process of bone remodeling is essential for maintaining the strength and integrity of the bone.
Overall, the medullary cavity enlarges during growth in thickness through the continuous process of appositional growth, as new bone tissue is added to the outer surface of the bone and old bone tissue is removed from the inner surface.
