What is the name of the connective tissue that covers the outer surface of bones?

The connective tissue that covers the outer surface of bones is called the periosteum. This layer serves several essential functions, including protection of the underlying bone, providing a surface for the attachment of muscles and tendons, and playing a crucial role in bone growth and repair. The periosteum is richly supplied with blood vessels and nerve endings, which contribute to the nourishment of bone tissue and the sensation of pain if the bone is injured.

Other options do not represent the same structure or function. The endosteum is a thin layer of connective tissue that lines the inner surface of the bone, while the perichondrium is the connective tissue that surrounds cartilage. The synovial membrane lines the joints and produces synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints but does not have any direct association with bone surfaces. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the specific role of the periosteum in the skeletal system.