Bone cross-section, SEM (C019/5250) Tank Top

False-coloured Scanning Electron Micrograph of a cross-section through cancellous bone. Sometimes referred to as 'spongy bone' or 'trabecular bone', cancellous bone is found within the middle of large bones. The honeycomb like microstructure gives the bone strength whilst saving weight and provides an open structure that can be occupied by bone marrow. The individual struts are called 'trabeculae' a latin term meaning 'little beam'. This image is taken using a method that shows highly mineralised bone as brighter shades, lower mineralisation appears darker; such methods are useful when looking at calcium-poor bone, such as that from osteoporosis patients. Image width is 1.66mm.