Final answer:
The adult human body contains 206 bones, which are part of the skeletal system that includes ligaments and cartilage, facilitating movement, structural support, protection of organs, and mineral homeostasis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The adult human body has 206 bones. This number is a standardized count that includes a variety of bone types that compose the human skeleton. These bones are categorized based on their shapes, which correlate with distinct functions essential for supporting the body, protecting internal organs, aiding in movement, and facilitating the production of blood cells.
Bones are made up of living tissues such as cartilage and ligaments. Cartilage provides smooth surfaces at joints, allowing for the movement of bones, while ligaments are bands of fibrous tissue that connect bones to one another. The bones in the human body, along with cartilage and ligaments, give rise to the skeletal system, a fundamental organ system essential for various physiological processes.
Furthermore, bones maintain mineral homeostasis, ensuring the storage and release of minerals as necessary and contributing to overall metabolic health. The human skeletal system, composed of 206 bones, is also known for its ability to renew itself, breaking down and rebuilding a significant percentage of skeletal mass each year.