The skeletal system

The skeletal system of the human body is made up of all the bones, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. The skeleton, in its whole, accounts for approximately 20% of a person’s overall weight.

The skeleton of an adult has 206 bones. Children’s skeletons actually contain more bones than adults’ do, as some bones, particularly those in the skull, fuse together as they grow.

Additionally, there are certain variances between the male and female skeletons. Male skeletons are typically longer and have a greater bone mass. On the other hand, the female skeleton has a wider pelvis to allow pregnancy and childbirth.

The skeletal system, regardless of age or gender, is divided into two components: 

1.the axial skeleton 

2.the appendicular skeleton.

Anatomy of the axial skeleton

The axial skeleton of an adult is composed of 80 bones. It is composed of the bones that make up the body’s vertical axis, including the bones of the head, neck, chest, and spine.

1.Skull Bones 

The adult skull is made up of 22 bones. These bones can be further categorised according to their geographic origin:

• Bones of the skull. The eight cranial bones comprise the majority of the skull. They contribute to the protection of your brain.

• Bones of the face. There are fourteen facial bones in all. They form the face and are located on the front of the skull.

2.Ossicles auditory

The auditory ossicles are six tiny bones located in the skull’s inner ear canal. On each side of the skull, there are three auditory ossicles referred to as the:

• the malleus (hammer)
• acus (anvil)
• staph (stirrup)

They collaborate to convey sound waves from the external environment to the inner ear structures.

3.Hyoid

The hyoid is a bone in the shape of a U that is located near the base of the jaw. It acts as a site of attachment for the neck’s muscles and ligaments.

4.Vertebral  Column 

26 bones comprise the vertebral column. The first 24 vertebrae are comprised entirely of vertebrae, followed by the sacrum and coccyx (tailbone).The 24 vertebrae are further classified as follows:

• Vertebrae cervicales. The head and neck contain these seven bones.
• Vertebrae thoracicae. These 12 bones are located in the apex of the spine.
• Vertebrae lumbar. The lower back has these five bones.

Both the sacrum and coccyx are composed of many fused vertebrae. They assist in supporting the body’s weight while seated. Additionally, they function as attachment places for a variety of ligaments.

5.Thoracic Cage 

The sternum (breastbone) and 12 pairs of ribs comprise the thoracic cage. These bones surround the organs of the upper torso, including the heart and lungs, in a protective cage.

Some ribs are directly connected to the sternum, whereas others are connected by cartilage. Certain types of ribs do not have an attachment site and are referred to as “floating ribs.”

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Function of skeletal system 

The primary purpose of the skeletal system is to support the body. The spinal column, for example, supports the head and torso. While a person is standing, the legs support and carry the weight of the upper body.However, the skeletal system performs various more roles, including the following:

• Defending interior organs against harm. The skull, for example, safeguards the brain, while the thoracic cage safeguards the heart and lungs.
• Providing space for mobility. Tendons connect muscles to bones. This link enables the body to move in a variety of different directions.
• The production of blood cells. Numerous bones include soft bone marrow, which generates red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
• Mineral and nutrient storage. Bones are capable of storing and releasing minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which are required for a variety of biological activities. Additionally, a portion of the bone marrow contains adipose (fat) tissue that may be utilised for energy.

Conclusion 

To summarise, the skeletal system gives us our shape and the ability to move. It serves as a storage for nutrients such as calcium and supports and protects the internal bodily organs. The skeletal systems of males and females differ slightly.