What characterizes buttons that are easy to dent?

The correct answer highlights that buttons that are easy to dent are typically in a developmental stage, which is particularly true for younger animals. In the context of animal growth and development, buttons refer to the small bony structures that are not yet fully ossified, meaning they are still undergoing the process of forming bone tissue. Because these buttons are still in the formative stages, they have not yet attained the density and hardness that come with full ossification, making them more pliable and susceptible to denting.

In younger animals, this characteristic can be an important indicator of age and development, as fully ossified buttons would signify a more mature state. Understanding the significance of buttons helps in assessing animal growth stages, which is essential in animal science.