Final answer:
Skeletal analysis involves examining the divisions of the skeletal system, analyzing the skull and the vertebral column, inspecting the thoracic cage, studying embryonic development, understanding the appendicular skeleton, and using age estimation techniques such as transition analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Seven Primary Steps Involved in a Skeletal Analysis
To perform a skeletal analysis, the following steps are typically followed by anthropologists and biologists:
- Determine the divisions of the skeletal system, which are the axial and appendicular skeletons.
- Analyze the skull to study the craniofacial features and tooth patterns for various assessments including age, sex, and ancestry.
- Examine the vertebral column for signs of spinal disorders, trauma, or age-related changes.
- Inspect the thoracic cage including ribs and sternum for structural integrity, evidence of diseases, and trauma.
- Study the embryonic development of the axial skeleton for congenital anomalies.
- Understand the composition of the appendicular skeleton, including limb bones and girdles, and their articulations.
- Utilize anthropometric methods to estimate age through observations of the pubic symphysis, iliac auricular surface, and cranial suture closure. For younger individuals, consider epiphyseal fusion and dental development.
The skeletal system is vital to understanding biological anthropology and forensic sciences--not only does it provide structural support and enable movement but it also gives crucial insights into a person's life and the circumstances surrounding their death.