Skeletal System Functions and Anatomy

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the six major functions of the skeletal system, bone marrow types, hematopoiesis, and structural muscle attachments.

Protection

The skeletal function where bones act as body armor to safeguard important organs from injury, such as the skull protecting the brain and the rib cage protecting the heart and lungs.

Support

The skeletal function that provides the body's structural framework, giving the body shape and supporting weight, such as the vertebral column supporting the head and trunk.

Movement

The skeletal function where bones work with skeletal muscles; when muscles contract, they pull on bones via tendons to produce movement at joints.

Tendons

Connective structures through which skeletal muscles attach to bones.

Blood Cell Production

The skeletal function where red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are manufactured inside red bone marrow.

Red Bone Marrow

The site inside bones where blood cells—including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets—are produced.

Hematopoiesis

The process of producing blood cells, which takes place in red bone marrow.

Mineral Storage

The skeletal function where bones store essential minerals, especially calcium and phosphate, releasing calcium into the bloodstream to maintain homeostasis.

Energy Storage

The skeletal function where fat is stored inside yellow bone marrow to serve as an energy source.

Yellow Bone Marrow

The tissue within bones that stores fat, which can be used as an energy source for the body.