Describe the human skeleton

The framework of bones and cartilage which gives shape and support to the body an animal is called skeleton. The human skeleton is made up of 206 bones. While the bones are hard, cartilages are soft. Cartilage is found between joints and in some elastic organs; like ear lobe and nose. Cartilage reduces friction between a joint.

Various organs of the skeletal system

Chest bone or Rib Cage: It forms a cone- shaped bony cage. The bones of the cage are called ribs. There are 12 pairs of the ribs. They attached to the vertebral column. The rib-cage protects the lungs and the heart.

Backbone or Vertebral Column: The vertebral column extends from the base of the skull to the hip. It consists of 33 small

Shoulder bone or Pectoral Girdle: The shoulder bone is formed by the collar bone and the shoulder blade. It is attached to the upper part of the rib-cage and to the upper arm bone.

Hip Bone or Pelvic Girdle: It is formed by the fusion of three bones, the hip bones and the tail parts of the backbone; to from a large bony bowl. The thigh bones are attached to the hip bone.

Skull: The skull is at the top of the vertebral column. It is composed of two main parts.

• Cranium: The cranium gives protection to the brain. The bones of the cranium are flat and are held firmly in a Zipper- like manner. The joints of the cranial bones are fused joints.
• Facial bones: These bones make the front and the lower part of the skull. The lower jaw bone or mandible is the only movable bone; which helps us to chew, eat and talk.