Function of Skeletal System

Question 1

Identify the 8 main functions of the skeleton?

Answer 1

1. Support
2. Protection
3. Attachment for skeletal muscle
4. Source of blood cell production
5. Store of minerals
6. Leverage
7. Weight bearing
8. Reduction friction across a joint

Question 2

How do your bones give you support?

Answer 2

Your bones give you shape and provide the supporting framework for the soft tissue of your body.

Question 3

How do your bones give you protection?

Answer 3

Bones surround and protect vital organs. Pelvis protects reproductive organs, cranium protects your brain.

Question 4

How do your bones support attachment?

Answer 4

Your skeleton provides a surface for muscle attachment. Tendons attach muscles to bone. Muscles contract and pull on bones

Question 5

How are your bones a source of blood cell production

Answer 5

Blood vessels feed the centre of your bone, and stored within is bone marrow. This continually produces red and white blood cells.

Question 6

Which minerals do your bones store?

Answer 6

Bones hold minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, essential for bone growth and health. These minerals are released into the blood

Question 7

How do bones help with leverage?

Answer 7

The bones provide a lever system against which muscles contract, and pull to create movement

Question 8

How do your bones cope with weight bearing?

Answer 8

Bones are strong to support your weight. Large forces are applied to your body and your skeleton is strong to prevent injury

Question 9

How do bones reduce friction across a joint

Answer 9

The skeleton has many different types of joint; synovial joints secrete fluid that prevents bones rubbing together, reducing friction

Question 10

Give a sporting example where your bones help with leverage?

Answer 10

High jump, pole vault, badminton, running etc