Final answer:
The thoracic section of the vertebral column has twelve vertebrae, numbered T1 to T12. They have distinctive anatomical features and support rib attachment, playing a vital role in the vertebral column's structure and movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The thoracic section of the vertebral column consists of twelve vertebrae. These are numbered from T1 to T12 and are located in the thoracic region, which corresponds to the upper back. These thoracic vertebrae are critical to the vertebral column's structure as they have distinctive features such as the long, downward-angled spinous process that overlaps the next inferior vertebra, and articulation sites for rib attachment.
In total, the adult vertebral column has 24 vertebrae plus the sacrum and coccyx. The thoracic vertebrae are larger than the cervical vertebrae and the orientation of their superior and inferior articular processes are important determinants for the type and range of movements available to the thoracic region of the spine.