What Is Axial Skeleton?
The skeletal system in humans provides support for the body. The skeleton is divided into two major sections, the axial and appendicular sections. The axial skeleton is comprised of the skull, ribs and vertebrae. These bones are the protective part of major organs like the brain, heart and lungs. The appendicular skeleton is comprised of the extremities like the bones in the legs, arms, fingers and toes. Together with the muscles, the appendicular skeleton provides movement for the body.
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Skull
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The skull is a very hard bone that protects the brain. The skull is divided into sections where the bones are connected. The skull also provides the facial features seen in humans. The bones included in the face are the nose, upper jaw and cheeks. The only separate part of the skull is the mandible, which makes up the lower part of the jaw. It's the bone that allows people to eat and speak.
Vertebrae
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The vertebrae are the bones that span vertically from the neck to the lower back. In between each vertebrae is a joint with soft tissue that allows the person to move the back. The vertebrae are hollow, which is where the spinal cord is located. The vertebrae are separated into three sections: cervical (the area above the chest), thoracic (the chest area) and the lumbar (lower back).
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Ribs
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The ribcage is made up of 24 bones (12 pairs) that surround the chest. The bones extend from the vertebrae column and create a circular region where the lungs and heart are located. The last two ribs on each side of the ribcage are considered "false ribs" because they do not wrap around and attach to the sternum. The sternum is commonly called the "breast bone." This bone is in the center of the ribcage where the other end of the ribs connect.
Marrow
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The bones provide another function aside from protection. Inside the hardened bone is soft tissue called marrow. The bone marrow is responsible for hematopoiesis, which is the process of blood cell creation. Bone marrow creates the red blood cells for oxygen circulation in the body. White blood cells are also created in the marrow where they circulate and protect the body from harmful microbes.
Appendicular Skeleton
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The appendicular skeleton is the other part of the human skeletal system. This part of the skeleton is mostly for movement. It comprises of the arms, legs, fingers and toes. The appendicular skeleton also makes up the hip bones and pelvic girdle. The pelvic girdle is a main gender distinguishable trait. The pelvic girdle is wider in women than in men. The wider pelvic girdle facilitates childbirth.
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