Chapter 8, Lesson 1: Overview of the Skeleton

Flashcards from Chapter 8, Lesson 1 of McGraw Hill Anatomy and Physiology, Ninth Edition, by Kenneth S. Saladin.

Axial skeleton

The central supporting axis of the body; includes the skull, vertebrae, sternum, ribs, sacrum and hyoid

Appendicular skeleton

The appendages of the body; includes the pectoral girdle, upper extremities (arms), pelvic girdle, and lower extremities (legs)

Number of bones

270 at birth, but reduces to 206 by adulthood and may vary depending on new growths

Articulated skeleton

Held together by wire and rods, shows spatial relationships between bones

Disarticulated bones

A skeleton taken apart to study surface features and markings