A&P Chapter 07

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the skeletal system, its structure, function, and development.

Skeletal System

Includes bones, ligaments, and cartilages; the main organs are bones.

Bones

The main organs of the skeletal system composed of various tissues; they provide support, protection, and enable movement.

Axial Skeleton

The part of the skeletal system that consists of the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage.

Appendicular Skeleton

The part of the skeletal system that includes the bones of the limbs and the pelvic and pectoral girdles.

Long Bones

Bones that are long and narrow, often with expanded ends; examples include the femur and humerus.

Short Bones

Cube-like bones where length equals width; includes sesamoid bones like the patella.

Flat Bones

Plate-like bones with broad surfaces; examples include many skull bones like the parietal and frontal bones.

Irregular Bones

Bones with various shapes, such as vertebrae and zygomatic bones.

Epiphysis

The expanded end of a long bone.

Diaphysis

The shaft of a long bone.

Compact Bone

The dense outer layer of bone that provides strength.

Spongy Bone

Lightweight inner bone that consists of trabecular structures.

Osteocytes

Mature bone cells found in lacunae.

Hematopoiesis

The process of blood cell formation that occurs in red bone marrow.

Osteoporosis

A condition resulting from loss of bone mineralization, leading to increased fragility.

Intramembranous Ossification

The process by which flat bones develop, forming from connective tissue.

Endochondral Ossification

The process by which long bones develop from hyaline cartilage models.

Hyoid Bone

A bone that supports the tongue and is a muscle attachment site.

Cervical Vertebrae

The 7 vertebrae found in the neck region.

Thoracic Cage

Composed of ribs, thoracic vertebrae, sternum, and costal cartilages; protects thoracic organs.

Pelvic Girdle

Consists of two hip bones, supports the trunk and protects pelvic organs.

Femur

The longest bone in the body, located in the thigh.

Cartilage

A flexible connective tissue found in many areas of the body, including between bones.