Human Anatomy: Axial Skeleton

These flashcards cover key concepts, terms, and definitions from the Axial Skeleton chapter of Human Anatomy.

Cranial Bones

Eight large bones that enclose and protect the brain.

Facial Bones

Bones that form the framework of the face and cavities for sense organs.

Vertebral Column

Column formed from 26 bones in adults, surrounding and protecting the spinal cord.

True Ribs

The first seven pairs of ribs that attach directly to the sternum.

False Ribs

Five pairs of ribs that do not attach directly to the sternum.

Floating Ribs

The last two pairs of false ribs that do not attach to the sternum at all.

Cleft Palate

A congenital disorder where the two halves of the palate fail to fuse.

Scoliosis

An abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.

Kyphosis

An exaggerated thoracic curvature, often results from osteoporosis.

Lordosis

An accentuated lumbar curvature, also known as swayback.

Intervertebral Discs

Cushion-like pads between vertebrae that absorb compressive stresses.

Sphenoid Bone

The keystone of the cranium, spans the width of the cranial floor.

Occipital Condyles

Articulates with the first vertebra, allowing for nodding of the head.

Atlas (C1)

The first cervical vertebra that supports the skull and allows head nodding.

Axis (C2)

The second cervical vertebra, providing a pivot for head rotation.

Coccyx

The tailbone formed from 3–5 fused vertebrae, providing minimal support.

Sternum

The breastbone, formed from three sections: manubrium, body, and xiphoid process.

Paranasal Sinuses

Air-filled sinuses located within the frontal, ethmoid, sphenoid, and maxillary bones.

Ribs

Bones that form the thoracic cage, consisting of true, false, and floating ribs.

Fontanelles

Unossified remnants of membranes in the skull present in infants.