*5.2.2 The resorption phase*

Mature osteoclasts on the surface of the bone will secrete acids which will decalcify the bone and then enzymes which will digest the collagen in the bone. In about 12 days [9], mature osteoclasts will create a resorption gap of about 40 μm [10]. By digesting bone, osteoclasts release growth factors. The osteoclasts then die by apoptosis.
