Lesson 1: Functions of the Skeletal System Flashcards
an endoskeleton that consists of 206 bones in the adult. It lies within the soft tissues
of the body
living structure capable of growth, adaptation and repair
compared to “exoskeleton” which is none living structure located on the outside of
the body and incapable of growth (e.g. crabs, shrimps, centipedes)
Human Skeleton
is the body system composed of bones, cartilage and ligaments and performs critical
functions for the human body.
Skeletal System
is a hard, dense connective tissue that forms most of the adult skeleton, the support
structure of the body.
Bone or Osseous Tissue
a semi-rigid form of connective tissue, provides flexibility and smooth surfaces for
movement, in the areas of the skeleton where bones move (for example, the ribcage
and joints)
Cartilage
are bands of dense and fibrous connective tissue that are key to the function of joints.
Ligaments
GENERAL FUNCTIONS OF THE SKELETAL SYSTEM
SPAM BT
Support
Protection
Assistance in Movement
Mineral Homeostasis
Blood Cell Production
Triglyceride Storage
Provides an internal framework of the body, giving support to the soft tissues and
providing points of attachment for most of the body, muscles
Support
Skeleton protects many of the vital organs from injury
Protection
Muscles, tendons, ligaments are attached to bone; when they contract, they pull on
bones to produce movement.
Assistance in Movements
Bone stores Ca, P, Na, K, and other minerals
Ca and P are important in muscle contraction and nerve activity
These can be mobilized and distributed by the blood vascular system to other regions
as they are required by the body.
Mineral Homeostasis
Within certain bones, a connective tissue called red bone marrow produces red blood
cells, white blood cells, and platelets, a process called hemopoiesis.
Blood Cell Production
Yellow bone marrow consists mainly of adipose cells, which store triglycerides. The
stored triglycerides are a potential chemical energy reserve.
Triglyceride Storage
