Introduction to Anatomy: The Skeletal System

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the functions, classifications, and specific bones of the human skeletal system as presented in the lecture notes.

Axial Skeleton

A division of the skeleton that includes the bones of the skull, vertebrae, sternum, ribs, and sacrum.

Appendicular Skeleton

A division of the skeleton that includes the bones of the upper and lower limbs, scapula, clavicles, and hip bones.

Long Bones

Bones that are longer than they are wide, such as the humerus.

Short Bones

Bones that are as wide as they are long, such as the carpal bones in the hands.

Irregular Bones

Bones that have complex, irregular shapes, such as the spinal vertebrae.

Flat Bones

Bones that are flat and light, such as the rib bones, scapulae, sternum, and skull bones.

Sesamoid Bones

Bones that are flat, small, and round, such as the patella (kneecap).

Cervical Vertebrae

A region of the spine consisting of $7$ bones, including the C1/Atlas and C2/Axis.

Thoracic Vertebrae

A region of the spine consisting of $12$ bones that articulate with the ribs and feature long spinous processes.

Lumbar Vertebrae

A region of the spine consisting of $5$ bones characterized by thick vertebral bodies.

Sacrum

A structure consisting of $5$ fused bones that articulates with the coxal bones; fusion begins at puberty and is completed by ages $25-30$.

Coccyx

Also known as the tail bone, it consists of $3-5$ fused bones that begin fusing around age $26$.

C1 (Atlas)

The first cervical vertebra which articulates with the skull and allows for nodding the head (the "Yes" movement).

C2 (Axis)

The second cervical vertebra which articulates with the Atlas and allows for the rotation of the head (the "No" movement).

Radius

The forearm bone located on the side of the thumb; a thumb up helps in orienting its position.

Ulna

A bone of the forearm; the tingling "funny bone" sensation occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed against the humerus.

Coxal Bones

Also known as hip or pelvic bones, these are comprised of the iliac, pubic, and ischium bones and are fully fused by age $25$.

Femur

The longest bone in the body, with a length roughly $\frac{1}{4}$ that of a person's total height.

Phalanges

The anatomical term for the bones located in the fingers and toes.

Patella

A sesamoid bone shaped like a giant upside-down sesame seed that functions as the kneecap.