The skeletal system serves several important functions in the human body. These functions include:
1. Support: The skeleton provides the structural framework for the body, giving support and shape to the organism.
2. Protection: The skeletal system protects vital organs such as the brain, spinal cord, heart, and lungs. For example, the skull protects the brain, the ribcage protects the heart and lungs, and the vertebrae protect the spinal cord.
3. Movement: Bones act as levers for muscles, enabling body movement. The skeletal system works in conjunction with the muscular system to facilitate motion.
4. Mineral storage: Bones store essential minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, which are necessary for various body functions.
5. Blood cell production: Red and white blood cells, as well as platelets, are produced in the bone marrow, which is found in some bones.
6. Energy storage: Yellow bone marrow, found in the medullary cavity of long bones, stores energy in the form of fat.
The human skeleton consists of 206 bones in adults. Some of the major bones include:
1. Skull: Comprised of the cranium and facial bones, it protects the brain and supports the structures of the head.
2. Spine (vertebral column): Consists of 33 vertebrae, which protect the spinal cord and support the upper body.
3. Ribcage: Includes 12 pairs of ribs, the sternum, and the thoracic vertebrae, which protect the heart and lungs.
4. Humerus: The long bone in the upper arm, connecting the shoulder to the elbow.
5. Radius and Ulna: The two bones in the forearm, connecting the elbow to the wrist.
6. Femur: The long bone in the thigh, connecting the hip to the knee, and is the longest bone in the body.
7. Tibia and Fibula: The two bones in the lower leg, connecting the knee to the ankle.
8. Pelvis: A basin-shaped structure that supports the spine and organs of the lower abdomen, and connects the spine to the lower limbs.
These are just a few examples of the major bones in the human skeleton.