Final answer:
You can identify ribs by using anatomical landmarks; the second rib, which attaches to the sternum at the sternal angle, is the most prominent and can be used as a reference point for counting ribs.
Step-by-step explanation:
To identify a specific rib number, you need to understand the anatomy and landmarks associated with the ribs. The ribs are numbered 1-12 and they articulate with the thoracic vertebrae. The second rib is a key landmark because it attaches to the sternum at the sternal angle and is the highest rib that can be felt by palpation, as the first rib is hidden behind the clavicle.
The costal groove is found along the inferior margin of each rib, carrying blood vessels and a nerve. The true ribs (1-7) attach directly to the sternum, whereas ribs 8-10 have costal cartilages that attach to the cartilage of the rib above, and the floating ribs (11-12) do not attach to the sternum at all. By palpating down from the second rib at the sternal angle, you can count and identify the lower ribs as they attach to the sternum.