6 Questions
What is the primary function of the axial skeleton?
Supporting and protecting vital organs
Which structure is part of the axial skeleton?
Vertebral column
What is the function of the appendicular skeleton?
Attaching limbs to the central body axis
Which bone is part of the upper limb in humans?
Humerus
What is the function of the lower limb in the skeletal system?
Enabling movement and weight-bearing
Which bone is NOT part of the appendicular skeleton?
Sternum
Study Notes
The Skeletal System: Dividing into Axial, Appendicular
The skeletal system is the foundation of our bodies, serving diverse roles such as support, protection, and facilitating movement through connections to muscular systems. It comprises numerous bones and connective tissues, divided into two principal categories: axial and appendicular skeletons.
Axial Skeleton
The axial skeleton runs along the body's central axis and includes the skull, vertebral column (spine), and thoracic cage (ribs and sternum). These structures offer crucial support and shield vital organs from harm:
- Skull: Housing the brain and protecting sensory organs.
- Vertebral Column: Provides structural support and flexibility, encompassing 24 vertebrae (plus the sacrum and coccyx), supporting the weight of the body while enabling movement through articulation with adjacent vertebrae.
- Thoracic Cage: Encasing the lungs and heart, providing rigidity necessary for respiration and circulation while allowing flexibility under pressure changes.
Appendicular Skeleton
The appendicular skeleton supports limbs and attaches them to the axial skeleton via girdles (scapular and pelvic) and various bones. It includes:
- Upper Limb: Consisting of one bone per arm (humerus), assisted by smaller bones (radius, ulna) in the forearm, terminating with wrist and hand bones.
- Lower Limb: Containing one bone per leg (femur), joined by tibia and fibula, ending with ankle and foot bones.
- Pelvic Girdle: Supporting hips and containing sockets for thigh bones' heads; includes ilium, pubis, and ischium.
- Scapular Girdle: Connecting arms to torso via clavicle and scapula, enabling broad range of motion.
These intricate networks form a robust yet adaptable structure essential for human physiology.
Dive into the role and composition of the skeletal system, comprising the axial skeleton (skull, vertebral column, thoracic cage) for central support and protection, and the appendicular skeleton (upper and lower limbs, pelvic and scapular girdles) for limb support and attachment to the axial skeleton.
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