Human Anatomy: The Skeletal System
This flashcard deck covers the essential concepts of the human skeletal system, perfect for students studying anatomy. It includes critical information on bone classification, structure, function, and major skeletal divisions to help solidify your understanding for exams. Use these cards to master the foundational knowledge required for success in your human anatomy course.
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What are the five main functions of the skeletal system?
Support, protection, movement (leverage for muscles), mineral storage and blood cell production.
What are the two divisions of the skeleton?
The axial skeleton (the body's central axis) and the appendicular skeleton (limbs and girdles).
What makes up the axial skeleton?
The skull, the vertebral column and the thoracic cage (ribs and sternum).
What makes up the appendicular skeleton?
The bones of the upper and lower limbs plus the pectoral and pelvic girdles.
What are the main bone shapes, with an example of each?
Long (femur), short (carpals), flat (sternum) and irregular (vertebrae); sesamoid bones such as the patella are often added.
What do osteoblasts do?
They build new bone matrix.
What do osteoclasts do?
They resorb (break down) bone matrix.
What are osteocytes?
Mature bone cells, trapped in the matrix, that maintain it.
How does compact bone differ from spongy bone?
Compact bone is dense and forms the outer layer; spongy bone is a lattice of trabeculae inside that holds marrow.
What is the periosteum?
The fibrous membrane covering bone (except joint surfaces), where tendons and ligaments attach.
Where is red bone marrow found in adults, and what does it do?
Mainly in spongy bone of flat bones and the ends of long bones; it makes blood cells.
What is endochondral ossification?
Bone formation by replacing a hyaline cartilage model, as in most long bones.
What is intramembranous ossification?
Bone formation directly from mesenchymal membranes, as in the flat bones of the skull.
What distinguishes a synovial joint?
A fluid-filled joint cavity between the bones, allowing smooth, free movement.
What is the difference between a ligament and a tendon?
A ligament joins bone to bone; a tendon joins muscle to bone.
How many vertebrae are in each region of the spine?
Cervical 7, thoracic 12, lumbar 5, sacrum 5 (fused) and coccyx 3–5 (fused).
What are the four stages of fracture repair?
Hematoma, fibrocartilaginous callus, bony callus, then remodeling.