Biology - Skeleton System

Introduction

• The human Skeleton system is an internal structure that provides support and strength to human body.

• At the birth, there are about 300 bones, but over period time, specifically at maturity, the number of bones is 206.

Classification of Bones

• Human Skeleton system broadly classified into −

  • Axial skeleton and

  • Appendicular skeleton

• Let’s discuss them in brief −

Axial Skeleton

• With the total 80 bones, the axial skeleton consists of −

  • Vertebral column

  • Rib cage

  • Skull and other associated bones

Appendicular Skeleton

• With total 126 bones, the appendicular skeleton consists of −

  • Pectoral girdles

  • Upper limbs

  • Pelvic girdle

  • Pelvis

  • Lower limbs

• The image given below illustrates the names of the major bones of a human body.

Functions of Bones

• Following are the major functions of skeleton system −

  • It provides support to the body

  • It protects many parts of the body, e.g. the skull protects brain; the vertebrae protect spinal cord; the rib cage protects lungs; the spine protects heart, and the sternum protects blood vessels

  • The skeleton system helps in movement

  • The skeleton system helps in the production of blood cells

  • The skeleton system stores minerals

  • The skeleton system helps in endocrine regulation