Question

Describe one hypothetical situation that illustrates the "use it" portion of the use it or lose it principle. Provide a description of the situation/behavior and an explanation for why more bone is present under these circumstances.

Answer 1

Answer:

The phenomenon in which osteoclast results in the degradation of the old bones and encourages the generation of novel bones by the assistance of osteoblasts is termed as bone remodeling. The remodeling of bones takes place throughout life, that is, whenever it is required. Some of the elements that monitor the process of bone remodeling are the concentration of serum vitamin D, serum level of calcium, and the level of calcitonin and growth hormone in the blood.  

Thus, whenever the bone gets degrade or becomes useless it gets replaced by the process of bone remodeling. Hence, the hypothesis of 'use it' here signifies the usage of bones or else they will get useless or get degrade.  

In the process of bone remodeling formation of more dense bones takes place due to the renewal of the destructed bones. This results in the presence of both the damaged bones and the newly formed bones at the same time, hence, it can be concluded that more bones are present at the time of bone remodeling.