Final answer:
A contributing factor to osteoporosis is the imbalance between bone resorption by osteoclasts and bone formation by osteoblasts, often exacerbated by low hormone production, particularly estrogen(option b).
Step-by-step explanation:
A contributing factor to osteoporosis is B. osteoclasts outpacing osteoblasts.
Osteoporosis occurs when there is an imbalance in the bone remodeling process, where the bone-resorbing cells, called osteoclasts, break down bone tissue faster than the bone-forming cells, called osteoblasts, can rebuild it. This leads to a decrease in bone density and resultant skeletal weakness. Low hormone production of the ovaries, particularly estrogen, is another contributing factor, as estrogen is important in promoting osteoblastic activity and bone matrix production. Other risk factors include calcium and vitamin D deficiency, poor nutrition, smoking, and lack of exercise.