CERVICAL VERTEBRAE

Question 1

have small somewhat oblong bodies with their spinous processes may be forked or double or bifid to cradle the strong ligaments supporting the head. The seven cervical vertebrae (referred to as C1 through C7) forms the neck portion of the vertebral column.

Answer 1

Cervical Vertebrae

Question 2

The first two cervical vertebrae _______ are highly modified to perform special functions.

Answer 2

(atlas and axis)

Question 3

has no body but has a ring of bone with hollow center, an anterior and posterior arches and 2 lateral masses.

Answer 3

• The First Cervical vertebra or C1 or Atlas

Question 4

– has a process shaped like a large tooth projecting upward from its body called the “Odontoid process/Dens Odontoid that fits into the anterior arch of the atlas wherein rotation of the head takes place at this joint.

Answer 4

• The Second Cervical vertebra or C2 or Axis or Epistropheus

Question 5

– has a long spinous process which extends back beyond the spinous processes of the other cervical vertebrae.

Answer 5

Seventh Cervical vertebra or Vertebra Prominens

Question 6

(referred to as T1 through T12) may be recognized by the following structural characteristics. They have a larger body than the cervical vertebrae.

Answer 6

12 Thoracic Vertebrae