Final answer:
The vertebral column consists of cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral vertebrae, each with distinct features. There are seven cervical vertebrae (C1-C7) with a small body, bifid spinous process, curved transverse processes, and flattened superior and inferior articular processes. There are twelve thoracic vertebrae (T1-T12) with larger bodies and longer downward projecting spinous processes. There are five lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5) with larger bodies and thick, blunt spinous processes. Finally, there are five fused sacral vertebrae that form the sacrum, which is connected to the pelvis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The vertebral column consists of several regions and each region is made up of a specific number of vertebrae. The regions and their respective vertebrae are:
a) Cervical vertebrae: There are seven cervical vertebrae, labeled C1-C7. They have characteristic features such as a small body, bifid spinous process, curved transverse processes, and flattened superior and inferior articular processes.
b) Thoracic vertebrae: There are twelve thoracic vertebrae, labeled T1-T12. They have features like larger bodies, longer spinous processes that project downward, and articulation with the ribs.
c) Lumbar vertebrae: There are five lumbar vertebrae, labeled L1-L5. They have larger bodies and thick, blunt spinous processes.
d) Sacral vertebrae: There are five sacral vertebrae that fuse together to form the sacrum. The sacrum is connected to the pelvis.