Question

Why is the skeletal system so important?

Answer 1

Hint: The skeletal system of the body is composed of bones, cartilages, ligaments and other tissues. Each bone is made up of many cells, protein, minerals and fibre. The skeletal system forms the basic framework of a body. It contains $206$ bones which are grouped into two major divisions- axial skeleton and appendicular skeleton. Each bone is joined with another with the help of joints.

Complete answer:
The axial skeleton contains a total of $80$ bones. It includes skull bones, thoracic cage and vertebral column. The axial skeleton performs important functions in the body and is called the central core of the body. The appendicular skeleton contains $126$ bones that includes the pelvic girdle, upper limbs, lower limbs and shoulder girdle.
The skeletal system is very important as it provides a solid structure that supports the organs and tissues of the body. It also protects delicate organs like the brain, heart, lungs and spinal cord by acting as a shield around them.
The bone marrow of the bones produces red blood cells and white blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body and white blood cells protect by fighting off infections.
The muscles of the body attach to the skeleton through a connective tissue called tendons. This attachment enables contraction and relaxation of muscles.
The bones act as a reservoir for essential minerals like calcium. They also regulate hormones and blood sugar level.

Notes:
Animals that do not have a proper skeletal system and bones are called invertebrates. Some of the invertebrate animals are jellyfish, slugs, snails, crabs, corals, mussels, lobsters and some insects. These animals have irregular structure and physical characteristics. Since they don’t have any bones, invertebrates use specialized structures like shells, hard exoskeleton, muscles etc for movement, support and protection.