Question

How many articular processes does each thoracic vertebrae have and name them?

a) 2; superior and inferior articular processes
b) 3; superior, inferior, and transverse articular processes
c) 4; anterior, posterior, superior, and inferior articular processes
d) 1; vertebral articular process

Answer 1

The thoracic vertebrae have two articular processes: the superior and inferior articular processes. These processes join to form slightly moveable joints between vertebrae.

Step-by-step explanation:

The thoracic vertebrae have two articular processes: the superior articular process and the inferior articular process.

The superior articular process faces upward and the inferior articular process faces downward on each side of a vertebra. The paired superior articular processes of one vertebra join with the corresponding paired inferior articular processes from the next higher vertebra to form slightly moveable joints between the adjacent vertebrae.

The shape and orientation of the articular processes play a major role in determining the type and range of motion available in the thoracic region of the vertebral column.