Functions of the skeletal system

Question 1

support

Answer 1

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

Question 2

protection

Answer 2

bones surround and protect vital organs. pelvis protects reproductive organs, cranium protects your brain

Question 3

attachment for skeletal muscle

Answer 3

your skeleton provides a surface for muscle attachment, allowing you to move. tendons attach muscle to bone. muscles contract and pull on bones

Question 4

source of blood cell production

Answer 4

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

Question 5

stores of minerals

Answer 5

bones hold minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, essential for bone growth and health. these minerals are stored and released into bloodstream as required

Question 6

leverage

Answer 6

the bones provide a lever system against which muscles can pull to create movement

Question 7

weight bearing

Answer 7

bones are strong to support your weight. large forces are applied to your body and your skeleton is strong to prevent injury

Question 8

reduction friction across a joint

Answer 8

the skeleton has many different types of joint; synovial joins secrete fluid that prevents bones rubbing together, reduction friction