The Skeletal system is the collection of bones in the body and the connective tissues such as Tendons, Ligaments and the Cartilage.
The bones consist of cells, fibres and inorganic salts. The bones are tough, hard and spongy. We can move our body as and when required because of the muscles attached to the joints of the bones. If skin muscles and organs of the body are removed, only the bony structure is left.
Composition of Skeletal System: The Human skeletal is unique in its structure and composition. It gives shape and size to the body. The bony structure of the body is called Skeleton. There are 206 bones in all in different sizes and shapes and they are all connected strongly by the fibrous tissues and the bones so connected by tissues give the shape to the human body. The ends of the bones at joints are covered with the cartilage layers and in a few cases there are cartilage pads between the joints. There are Ligaments which join firmly the bones at the joints and they, thus, help in the movement of the joints without any constraint or friction.
Four Functions of Skeletal System :
1. Shape and support – It gives shape and support to the human body.
2. Protection – It protects the delicate and main internal organs of the body. For example Cranium protects brain and eyes, Thoracic cage protects heart and lungs, Vertebrae protects spinal cord and Pelvis protects Rectum and Bladder.
3. Mobility – Muscles attached to the joints of bones provide space for movement.
4. Bones helps to form red and white corpuscles in the bone marrow.
