Skeletal System Structure & Function
The Skeletal System is made up of:
Bones (skeleton)
Joints
Cartilages
Ligaments
These structures are divided into either the Axial skeleton or the Appendicular skeleton.
Bones (skeleton)
Joints
Cartilages
Ligaments
These structures are divided into either the Axial skeleton or the Appendicular skeleton.
The Functions of the Bones
- Support the body
- Protect soft organs
- skull & vertebrae protect brain and spinal cord
- rib cage protects thoracic cavity organs (heart & lungs)
- Movement - attached skeletal muscles allow for movement
- Storage of minerals and fats
- calcium & phosphorus are stored within the matrix
- fat is stored in the internal marrow cavity
- Hematopoiesis (blood cell formation)