Final answer:
The skeletal system is composed of bones, ligaments, and cartilage, providing structure, movement, protection, and other critical functions to the body. Bones contain calcium and other minerals, making them strong yet living tissues, while cartilage and ligaments contribute to joint function and skeletal integrity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The components of the skeletal system consist primarily of bones, ligaments, and cartilage. Bones are both sturdy and resilient due to the presence of calcium and other mineral salts within their living tissues, making them hard and rigid. Bones are living organs that contain blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues, contradicting the common misconception that they are inanimate structures.
Cartilage is another critical component, found at the ends of bones within joints. It is a type of dense connective tissue that is durable yet flexible. This smooth tissue allows for ease of movement within the joint. Ligaments, comprised of bands of fibrous connective tissue, play a vital role in maintaining the skeletal structure by holding bones together and stabilizing them, thus preventing excessive movement that could lead to injury.
The functions of the skeletal system are multifaceted. It provides essential support and shape for the body, facilitates movement in conjunction with the muscles, protects vital internal organs, produces blood cells, contributes to homeostasis, and generates important hormones for the body's functioning. In the event of physical trauma, such as a car accident, the protection afforded to internal organs by the skeletal system becomes particularly significant.
Review questions typically associated with this topic might include the identification of bones as living organs, naming the three main components of the skeletal system, listing its functions, and describing the tissue types that comprise bone structure. It is crucial to recognize that the skeletal system is composed of bones and cartilage, and not muscles and tendons, vitreous humor, or merely minerals and fat. Understanding this complex system's architecture and its protective and supportive roles can provide insights into the human body's overall function and health.