Exercise 9 the axial skeleton review sheet – Embark on an enlightening journey through Exercise 9: The Axial Skeleton Review Sheet, a comprehensive guide that delves into the intricacies of the axial skeleton. Prepare to unravel its structure, functions, and clinical significance, gaining a profound understanding of this vital component of the human body.
Within the axial skeleton lies a symphony of bones, joints, and muscles, each playing a crucial role in our mobility, protection, and overall well-being. This review sheet serves as your roadmap, navigating you through the complexities of this anatomical marvel.
Axial Skeleton Overview: Exercise 9 The Axial Skeleton Review Sheet
The axial skeleton is the central and rigid part of the human skeleton. It forms the body’s axis and provides support, protection, and movement. The axial skeleton consists of the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage.
The axial skeleton serves several important functions. It protects vital organs, such as the brain, heart, and lungs. It also provides attachment points for muscles and supports the body’s weight. Additionally, the axial skeleton plays a role in movement, allowing us to bend, twist, and turn.
The bones that make up the axial skeleton include:
- Skull
- Vertebral column
- Ribs
- Sternum
Spinal Column
The spinal column, also known as the vertebral column, is a flexible structure that extends from the skull to the pelvis. It consists of 33 bones called vertebrae. The vertebrae are stacked one on top of the other and separated by intervertebral discs.
The spinal column provides support for the body, protects the spinal cord, and allows for movement.
The spinal column is divided into five regions:
- Cervical (neck) region: 7 vertebrae
- Thoracic (chest) region: 12 vertebrae
- Lumbar (lower back) region: 5 vertebrae
- Sacral region: 5 vertebrae fused together to form the sacrum
- Coccygeal region: 4 vertebrae fused together to form the coccyx
The spinal cord is a long, thin bundle of nerves that runs through the center of the spinal column. The spinal cord carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body.
Rib Cage, Exercise 9 the axial skeleton review sheet
The rib cage is a bony structure that surrounds the chest cavity. It consists of 12 pairs of ribs and the sternum. The ribs are curved bones that connect to the vertebrae at the back and to the sternum at the front.
The rib cage provides protection for the heart, lungs, and other organs in the chest cavity. It also helps with breathing by expanding and contracting.
There are three types of ribs:
- True ribs: The first seven pairs of ribs connect directly to the sternum.
- False ribs: The next five pairs of ribs connect indirectly to the sternum through cartilage.
- Floating ribs: The last two pairs of ribs do not connect to the sternum.
Skull
The skull is a complex structure that forms the head. It consists of 22 bones that are fused together. The skull protects the brain and other organs in the head. It also provides attachment points for muscles and supports the face.
The skull is divided into two main parts:
- Cranium: The cranium is the upper part of the skull that encloses the brain.
- Facial skeleton: The facial skeleton is the lower part of the skull that forms the face.
General Inquiries
What is the primary function of the axial skeleton?
The axial skeleton provides structural support, protects vital organs, and facilitates movement.
How many vertebrae make up the spinal column?
There are 33 vertebrae in the spinal column, divided into five regions.
What is the role of the rib cage?
The rib cage protects the heart, lungs, and other thoracic organs.
