Question

An articulated skeleton means that the body was laid in place and was not disturbed. Small disturbances in the articulation can be do to soil shifting, erosion, bioturbation (animal or plant action, such as rodents or tree roots). In these cases the body is still considered to be articulated. These are called what?

Answer 1

An articulated skeleton refers to remains laid in place without post-mortem disturbance; minor shifts caused by natural factors do not change this status. Articulated remains are connected by joints that enable movement and provide stability.

Step-by-step explanation:

When an articulated skeleton is described, it refers to a situation where the skeleton remains have been laid in place and not disturbed post-mortem. Small disturbances to this articulation, which may be due to factors such as soil shifting, erosion, or bioturbation (actions by animals or plants like rodents digging or tree roots growing), are expected. Such disturbances do not alter the overall status of the remains being articulated; they simply indicate minor post-depositional changes. In the context of the study of bones, the point where two bones meet is termed a joint or articulation. This articulation is essential for both movement and stability. For instance, the joints amongst the bones of the skull are built for stability, providing protection with little to no movement.