Question

________ vertebra is the atlas and articulates with the occipital condyles.
1. First
2. Eleventh and twelfth
3. Second 
4. None of the above

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 1 : First

The correct answer is First.

• The first vertebra is the atlas and articulates with the occipital condyles.
• It is made up of a ringbone and supports the skull and allows movement of the head.

• It is the first cervical vertebrae hence known as C1.
• The second vertebra is called the axis and also the second cervical vertebra.
• The pivot joint is formed by the joint of the first and the second vertebra which allows side-to-side movement of the head.
• The eleventh and twelfth is the floating vertebra which does not connect with the rib ventrally.

Types of vertebra	Number of Bones
Cervical vertebra	Seven
Thoracic vertebra	Twelve