Structure and function of the skeleton

Question 1

What are the 14 bones ?

Answer 1

• Cranium
• scapula
• Sternum
• Ribs
• Vertebrae
• Humerus
• Radius
• Ulna
• Pelvis
• Femur
• patella
• Tibia
• Fibular
• Talus

Question 2

What is the purpose of a long bone and what are examples of a long bone ? + a sporting example

Answer 2

Long bones enable gross movement by working as levers

• The humerus
• The femur

Long bones work as a lever to increase the pace of the ball when kicked for a penalty shoot

Question 3

What is the purpose of a short bones
and what are examples of a short bone ? + a sporting example

Answer 3

Short bones allow finer, controlled movement

• The tarsals (in the ankle)

When dribbling the ball the tarsals allow you to make fine controlled movements to go around opponents

Question 4

What is the purpose of a flat bones and what are examples of a flat bone ? + a sporting example

Answer 4

Flat bones provide protection of vital organs and a broad surface for muscle to attach to

• the cranium
• the ribs
• the scapula

The cranium protects the brain if hit by a cricket ball

Question 5

What are the functions of the skeleton?

Answer 5

• Support
• Production of blood cells
• Storage of mineral
• Protection of vital organs
• Structural shape and muscle attachment
• Formation of joints for movement
• The last two come under aid to movement

Question 6

How does the skeleton provide blood cell production ?

Answer 6

The following types of blood cells are produced in bone marrow and they are all beneficial to performance:

• Platelets helps clotting if you are cut (if you get cut in a rugby game you can continue to play)
• Red blood cells transport oxygen to working muscles ( allows your muscles to keep working harder for longer during long distance swimming)
• White blood cells help fight infection (so you don’t miss training or competitions)

Question 7

How does the skeleton help with mineral storage ?

Answer 7

Calcium and phosphorus are stored in bone to strengthen them (so you are less likely to get injured after a powerful rugby tackle)

Question 8

How does the skeleton provide support ?

Answer 8

By providing a structural shape for muscle and tissue to attach to. This keeps the muscle in place and gives you your shape

Question 9

How does the skeleton provide protection ?

Answer 9

You skeleton provides protection for vital organs

Question 10

How does your skeleton aid to movement ?

Answer 10

• The bones provide a place for the muscles to attach to, so when the muscles contract they pull the bones to cause movement. MOVEMENTS OCCUUR AT THE JOINTS