Skeletal+Questions+SLS

October 5, 2008 Science-Human Bio**
 * Shelby Smith


 * Skeletal Questions**

The skeleton supports the body, protects the soft parts of the body, produces blood cells and stores minerals and fats as well as permits flexible body movements.
 * 1. What are the four main functions of the skeleton? (p. 208)**

The difference between cartilage and bone is that cartilage is not as strong as bone, and it is more flexible because it is comprised of collagen and elastic fibers. Cartilage also has no blood vessels, which makes it harder to heal and it also lacks nerves. Vitamin D is important for bone growth because it’s chief function is intestinal absorbtion of calcium, which is essential for bone strength and growth.
 * 2. What is the difference between cartilage and bone? (p.208)**
 * 3. Why is vitamin D important to bone growth? How do we get vitamin D? (p. 212)**


 * 4. Insert an image of a skeleton. You will need to know the location of the following bones.**
 * Skull:** frontal bone, parietal bone, temporal bone, occipital bone, zygomatic bone, maxilla, mandible
 * Pectoral girdle**: clavicle, scapula
 * Upper limb**: humerus, ulna, radius, carpals, metacarpals, phalanges
 * Rib Cage**: sternum, ribs, costal cartilages
 * Pelvic girdle**: coaxyl bones, sacrum, coccyx
 * lower limb**: femur, patella, tibia, fibula, tarsals, metatarsals, phalanges