Bones with minimal usage may diminish in size. In order for a bone to decrease in size, it must lose both protein and minerals such as calcium. The protein framework is taken apart by special enzymes. But since minerals are not made of protein, they are unaffected by these destructive chemicals. In order to dislodge these harder mineral deposits, your body releases citric acid and lactic acid through a process called decalcification.
Bone decalcification can also occur in the classroom.
In this activity, you'll test several liquids to find out which ones best dissolve the minerals in bones. Obtain five chicken bones that have been stripped of all meat. Fill these jars halfway with the identified liquids. The jars must contain enough liquid so that the entire bone sample will be immersed. Examine each of your five bone samples.