Final answer:
The cranial bones, scapulae, sternum, and ribs are examples of flat bones which provide protection to internal organs and attachment points for muscles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cranial bones, scapulae, sternum, and ribs are examples of flat bones. Flat bones are thin, broad, and can be slightly curved. They serve a crucial role in protecting internal organs as well as providing extensive surfaces for muscle attachment. For instance, the cranial bones make up the skull, protecting the brain and giving a surface for head and neck muscles to attach. The scapulae, or shoulder blades, and the ribs protect vital thoracic organs including the lungs and heart while also serving as attachment points for muscles that facilitate respiratory and upper limb movements. The sternum, or breastbone, together with the ribs, forms the rib cage that encases and safeguards the heart and lungs.
The Skull consists of 22 bones, 8 of which are cranial bones. These cranial bones, including the frontal, parietal, and occipital bones, are tightly fused in the adult and do not move, forming a solid protective cavity for the brain. These structures highlight the importance of flat bones in providing protection and support across various parts of the body.