What are bones

What are bones?

The skeletal system is vital during our lifetime. An adult human body has 206 bones. The human skeleton is a complex system and serves multiple different functions. The bones are largely made up of an organic matrix (osteoid) and the mineral calcium hydroxyapatite, which gives the bones strength and hardness.

Functions of the skeletal system:

·        The bones are well adapted to provide structural support to the vertebrates. Muscles are attached to the bones and allow vertebrates to move. Without the skeletal system, the vertebrates would just become a pile of soft tissues without structure and support, and vertebrates like us will not be able to sit, stand, walk or run.

·        The bones provide a protected environment for delicate internal organs. For example, the bones of the skull protect the brain, the vertebrae of the spine protect the spinal cord, and the ribs protect the heart and the lungs.

·        The bones contain bone marrow that produces and stores new red blood cells and white blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen in the form of oxyhaemoglobin throughout the body whereas white blood cells protect our body against infections.

·        The bones help to control the body’s collection of various proteins and nutrients, such as calcium and phosphorus.