What are the five functions of the skeleton? 1
List the bones of the upper extremity.
List the bones of the lower extremity.
List the bones of the shoulder girdle.
List the bones of the pelvic girdle.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Functions of the Skeleton
- Support: The skeleton provides structural support for the body, maintaining its shape and supporting soft tissues.
- Protection: It protects vital organs, such as the brain (skull), lungs and heart (ribcage), and spinal cord (vertebral column).
- Movement: Bones serve as attachment points for muscles, and together they enable the body to move.
- Mineral Storage: Bones store minerals, particularly calcium and phosphorus, which can be released into the bloodstream when needed.
- Blood Cell Production: The bone marrow, found within certain bones, produces blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Bones of the Upper Extremity
- Clavicle (collarbone)
- Scapula (shoulder blade)
- Humerus (upper arm)
- Radius (forearm, on the thumb side)
- Ulna (forearm, on the pinky side)
- Carpals (wrist bones, 8 bones)
- Metacarpals (palm bones, 5 bones)
- Phalanges (finger bones, 14 bones)
Bones of the Lower Extremity
- Femur (thigh bone)
- Patella (kneecap)
- Tibia (shin bone, larger and on the inner side)
- Fibula (calf bone, smaller and on the outer side)
- Tarsals (ankle bones, 7 bones)
- Metatarsals (foot bones, 5 bones)
- Phalanges (toe bones, 14 bones)
Bones of the Shoulder Girdle
- Clavicle (collarbone)
- Scapula (shoulder blade)
The shoulder girdle connects the upper limbs to the axial skeleton, allowing a wide range of arm movements.
Bones of the Pelvic Girdle
- Coxal bones (hip bones, 2 bones: ilium, ischium, pubis)
- Sacrum (part of the vertebral column)
- Coccyx (tailbone)
The pelvic girdle supports the weight of the body, connects the spine to the lower limbs, and protects the reproductive organs, bladder, and part of the intestines.
Explanation:
The human skeleton is an intricate framework that serves both functional and protective roles. The upper and lower extremities are structured for a range of motions, from grasping and lifting (upper) to walking, running, and standing (lower). The shoulder girdle allows extensive arm movement, while the pelvic girdle offers stability and support for locomotion. Together, the bones of the skeleton form a system that provides strength, protection, and mobility.