Skeletal System Functions and Structures

The skeletal system supports the body, protects organs, allows movement, stores minerals, and produces blood cells.

A small, round bone embedded in a tendon, reducing friction and improving tendon leverage.

Dense, strong bone that forms the outer layer of bones.

Lighter, porous bone found in the ends of bones; contains red marrow.

Functional unit of compact bone.

Mature bone cell.

Cartilage being replaced by bone (a crucial part of bone development).

Growth plate (present in growing bones) where new bone lengthens during development.

There are three primary types of muscle tissue: skeletal, cardiac, and smooth. Each type has distinct characteristics and functions.

Skeletal muscle is attached to bones, is striated (has a striped appearance), and is under voluntary control. It's responsible for movement and posture.

Cardiac muscle is found only in the heart, is striated, and operates involuntarily. It is responsible for the rhythmic contractions of the heart.

Smooth muscle is found in the walls of internal organs and blood vessels. It is non-striated and operates involuntarily. It helps control digestion, blood pressure, and other internal functions.

The outermost connective tissue layer that surrounds a whole muscle, providing support and protection.

Connective tissue that surrounds bundles of muscle fibers (fascicles), containing blood vessels and nerves.

The innermost connective tissue layer that surrounds individual muscle fibers, providing support and a pathway for blood vessels.

A strong, fibrous cord that connects muscles to bones, transmitting force for movement.

When a skeletal muscle contracts, it pulls on its attached tendons, which in turn move bones at joints. This coordinated contraction allows for controlled movements.

A small, round bone embedded in a tendon that reduces friction and improves the tendon's leverage.

Covers joint surfaces, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement.

Diaphysis: The shaft of a long bone, made of compact bone. Epiphysis: The ends of a long bone, made of spongy bone.

A connective tissue covering bones that aids in growth and repair.

Compact bone is dense and forms the outer layer of bones, while spongy bone is lighter, porous, and found at the ends of bones.

The functional unit of compact bone.

Osteoblasts build bone by creating and secreting the matrix, while osteoclasts break down bone tissue to release minerals.

Axial skeleton includes the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, providing support and protection. Appendicular skeleton includes the limbs and girdles, facilitating movement.

A mature human skeleton typically contains 206 bones.