American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

Which connective tissue provides the framework for the body?

1. Adipose tissue

2. Bone

3. Connective tissue proper

4. Cartilage

The correct answer is: Bone

Bone is the connective tissue that provides the framework for the body. It consists of a hard, mineralized matrix that offers structural support, allowing the body to maintain its shape, protect vital organs, and facilitate movement by acting as levers for muscles. Additionally, bone serves as a reservoir for minerals, particularly calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for various physiological functions. While adipose tissue provides insulation and energy storage, connective tissue proper encompasses a wide variety of tissues that help bind and support other tissues and organs, and cartilage offers flexible support at joints and in structures such as the nose and ears, neither of these play a primary role in providing the rigid structure that bone does. Thus, bone stands out as the best answer when considering which connective tissue serves as the body's framework.