Bones store calcium, phospherus and other minerals used by your body.
Protects
Bones help protect the body from injury. The spine and skull protect the CNS (Central Nervous System).
Movement
Bones provide form and structure for muscles to work against. Muscles can contract, but not extend. Using bones as levers one muscle can contract to extend another.
Blood Cells
Red blood cells and some white blood cells are formed in the epiphysie of long bones. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. White blood cells help fight off infections.
Structure and Support
The skeletal system provides a framework of support for the body to be built upon. The bones of the legs and back support the body's entire weight.
Parts of a Long Bone
The articular cartilage (not pictured) is smooth cartilage in joints that is kept moist by synovial fluid.
Types of Bones
Long Bones
Long bones have a tubular shaft and articular surface at each end. The femurs, tibias, fibulas, humeri, radii, ulnas, metacarpals, metatarsals, phalanges, and clavicles are long bones.
Flat Bones
Flat bones are thin and have broad surfaces. The ribs, scapula, sternum, and ilium are all flat bones.
Short, or Irregular, Bones
Short bones are variable in size and shape. These bones are generally compact in nature and are distributed throughout the skeleton. These include the entire vertebral column, carpal bones, and tarsal bones.
