Answer :
Final answer:
The resting zone of the epiphyseal plate is not actively involved in longitudinal growth as it contains chondrocytes, hence the correct answer is A. Resting zone.
Explanation:
The zone of the epiphyseal plate not actively involved in longitudinal growth is the resting zone, which is also known as the reserve zone.
In the resting zone, which is the region closest to the epiphyseal end of the plate, there are small chondrocytes within the matrix that do not participate in bone growth; their primary role is to secure the epiphyseal plate to the osseous tissue of the epiphysis.
In contrast, the proliferation zone and the zone of maturation and hypertrophy are both actively involved in the process of longitudinal bone growth.
The ossification zone, while not directly responsible for creating new cells, is where calcified cartilage is replaced by bone tissue, facilitating the lengthening of the diaphysis.
