Skeletal System Anatomy PDF

## 2. Skeletal System The general function of the skeletal system is: * Produce red blood cells. * Storage for minerals and salts. * Provide attachment for muscles. * Provide skeletal framework of the body. * Protects the delicate organs of the body like the brain, heart, lungs, liver, intestines,...

## 2. Skeletal System The general function of the skeletal system is: * Produce red blood cells. * Storage for minerals and salts. * Provide attachment for muscles. * Provide skeletal framework of the body. * Protects the delicate organs of the body like the brain, heart, lungs, liver, intestines, and kidneys. There are about 206 bones in the body. The bone marrow of the bones produces red blood cells. There are two sections of the human skeleton: * **Axial skeleton:** composed of the skull, vertebral column, and the thorax. * **Appendicular skeleton:** comprises the bones of the arms, legs, pelvis, and shoulders. ### 2.1 Axial Skeleton **Skull:** consists of cranium and facial bones. Cranium protects the brain. Facial bones gives structure to the face. **Vertebral column or spinal column:** protects the spinal cord and provide structural support to the organs from the skull to the pelvis. The thorax or the rib cage comprises the sternum and ribs, it protects the heart and lungs. ### 2.2 Appendicular Skeleton Allows the movement of arms, forearms, wrists, hands, and legs, like walking, running, jumping, and swimming. **Pelvic bones** and other bones of the lower parts of the body provide movement of the legs. * **Femur:** is the longest bone in the body.