The major constituent of vertebrate bone is

Options

A. Calcium phosphate
B. Sodium chloride
C. Calcium carbonate
D. Collagen

Answer

To determine the major constituent of vertebrate bone, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Composition of Bone**:
- Bone is a type of connective tissue that provides structure and support to the body. It is composed of both organic and inorganic materials.

2. **Identify the Organic Component**:
- The organic component of bone primarily consists of collagen, which is a protein that provides tensile strength and flexibility.

3. **Identify the Inorganic Component**:
- The inorganic component of bone is primarily made up of minerals. The most significant mineral found in bones is hydroxyapatite.

4. **Chemical Composition of Hydroxyapatite**:
- Hydroxyapatite is chemically known as calcium phosphate. This mineral gives bones their hardness and strength.

5. **Evaluate the Options**:
- Option 1: Calcium phosphate (correct, as it is the major inorganic component).
- Option 2: Sodium chloride (not a major component of bone).
- Option 3: Calcium carbonate (not the primary component of bone).
- Option 4: Collagen (important but is the organic component, not the major constituent).

6. **Conclusion**:
- The major constituent of vertebrate bone is calcium phosphate.

### Final Answer:
The major constituent of vertebrate bone is **calcium phosphate**.

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