Final answer:
The skeletal system, comprised of bones and cartilage, is responsible for bodily support, protection of internal organs, facilitating movement, and other essential functions like blood cell production and hormone regulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The organ system responsible for the support and protection of organs and tissues is the skeletal system. This system is an essential component of the human body, composed of bones and cartilage, which serve multiple critical functions.
Bones provide the structural support necessary for the body's posture and are the main factor in protecting delicate internal organs. For instance, the ribcage protects the heart and lungs, while the skull encases and safeguards the brain. Spongy bone, also known as cancellous bone, helps in bearing weight and distributing it across the bones. Whereas cartilage offers flexibility and strength in areas such as the ears, nose, thoracic cage, and at the joints, where it cushions bones and facilitates smooth movement.
The skeletal system is further enhanced by ligaments, strong connective tissue bands that stabilize the joints and prevent injury by limiting excessive movement. Thus, the skeletal system is not only paramount for protection, but it also enables movement, produces blood cells, and plays a role in homeostasis and hormone production.