Human Skeleton: Axial Skeleton

Introduction to Human Skeleton

The bones that make up the head, neck, and trunk together make up the human axial skeleton, which serves as the body’s main structural support. It supports our posture and safeguards important body parts like the brain, spinal cord, and thoracic organs. The axial skeleton is made up of about 80 bones, including the skull, spinal column, and ribcage. Each of these bones is important for preserving the structure of our body and performing vital tasks for our general health.

Procedure

The procedure for studying the axial skeleton is as follows:

First, examine the different bones that compose the axial skeleton and closely observe the joints between them.
Create a labelled diagram to illustrate your observations.

Observation

The axial skeleton is composed of several distinct components, like the skull – a complex structure that safeguards the brain. Moving along the axial skeleton, the vertebral column or spine is made up of the coccyx, also known as the tailbone, the sacrum at the base of the spine, and the vertebrae that make up the upper, middle, and lower backs.

Another crucial component of the axial skeleton is the rib cage, which is made up of floating ribs that are not linked to the sternum, false ribs that attach indirectly or not at all, and genuine ribs that attach directly to the sternum. Finally, the manubrium, body, and xiphoid process make up the sternum, a flat bone in the chest.

FAQs on Human Skeleton

Q1: Define axial skeleton.

Answer: Axial skeleton forms the central framework of the human body consisting of the skull, vertebral column (spine), rib cage, and sternum (breastbone).

Q2: Mention the two types of bones and their functions present in the human skull.

Answer: The two types of bones present in the skull are cranial bones and facial bones. The cranial bone protects the brain, whereas the facial bones shape the face and hold the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Q3: Mention the role of the axial skeleton and comment on its importance for overall bodily function and protection.

Answer: The axial skeleton is important because it provides the central support structure for the body. It protects vital organs like the brain, spinal cord, and heart. Additionally, it allows for movement and flexibility while maintaining the body’s upright posture.

Q4: Write the difference between true and false ribs in the rib cage.

Answer: True ribs are the first seven pairs of ribs that attach directly to the sternum (breastbone), while false ribs are the next five pairs, some of which attach indirectly to the sternum or do not connect to it at all.