Question

Identify and write the names of the bones and joints present in this structure.

Answer 1

Hint: The rib cage is the arrangement of bones that are attached to the vertebral column and thorax of almost all vertebrates and provides protection to the heart and lungs.

Complete answer:
The ribs are classified on the basis of their location and also connection to the sternum. The ribs that are directly attached to the sternum are termed true ribs and the ones not directly attached to the sternum are termed false ribs, and all the ribs are attached to the vertebrae. The total number of ribs are twelve and each rib consists of the head, neck and shaft region. The first rib is the most curved one with a small head and attached to the first thoracic vertebra.

The second rib is attached to the sternum by the help of the costal cartilage. The ninth rib is at the same level with the first lumbar vertebrae and this level is called the transpyloric plane. The eleventh and twelfth rib are termed as floating ribs as they are not attached to the sternum at all.

The sternum is a flat bone that makes up the front of the rib cage where the true ribs join. The jugular notch is present at the top of the manubrium, which is a part of the sternum and the clavicular notch is located on either side of the manubrium. The xiphoid process is a cartilage located at the lower side of the sternum and not attached to any ribs.

Note: The rib cage is not only needed for protection of the lungs and heart but also plays an important role in the respiratory system of humans. Damage to the rib cage like fracture is life threatening. Dislocation of ribs is caused commonly and is also very painful.