human skeleton
The human skeleton is the internal framework of the body made up of about 206 bones in adults, along with cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. It is divided into two main parts: the axial skeleton, which includes the skull, vertebral column (spine), and rib cage; and the appendicular skeleton, which comprises the bones of the limbs and the shoulder and pelvic girdles. The skeleton provides shape and support to the body, protects internal organs like the brain, heart, and lungs, enables movement by serving as attachment points for muscles, stores minerals such as calcium, and produces blood cells in the bone marrow. It plays essential roles in the body's structure, protection, movement, mineral storage, and blood cell production.
Protection: It protects vital internal organs, such as the skull protecting the brain and the rib cage protecting the heart and lungs.
Movement: It enables movement by serving as attachment points for muscles; bones act as levers and joints as fulcrums.
Production of Blood Cells: Bone marrow inside certain bones produces red and white blood cells and platelets.
Storage of Minerals: It stores essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus which can be released into the bloodstream as needed.
Endocrine Regulation: Bones produce hormones like osteocalcin that help regulate blood sugar and fat deposition.