Skeletal: Functions of the skeletal system

Question 1

Support

Answer 1

Bones give you shape and provide supporting framework for the soft tissue in your body

Question 2

Protection

Answer 2

Bones surround and protect vital organs.
Eg pelvis protects reproductive organs and cranium protects your brain.

Question 3

Source of blood cell production

Answer 3

Blood vessels feed the centre of your bone, bone marrow is stored within.
This continually produces red and white blood cells

Question 3

Store of minerals

Answer 3

Bones hold minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, essential for bone
growth and health. These minerals are released into the blood

Question 4

Attachment

Answer 4

Your skeleton provides a surface for muscle attachment. Tendons attach
muscles to bone. Muscles contract and pull on bones.

Question 5

Leverage

Answer 5

The bones provide a lever system against which muscles contract, and pull to
create movement

Question 6

Weight bearing

Answer 6

Bones are strong to support your weight. Large forces are applied to your body
and your skeleton is strong to prevent injury

Question 7

Reducing friction across a joint

Answer 7

The skeleton has many different types of joint; synovial joints secrete fluid that
prevents bones rubbing together, reducing friction.