What Are The Six Major Functions Of The Skeletal System

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The skeleton serves six major functions: support, movement, protection, production of blood cells, storage of minerals and endocrine regulation. The adult human skeletal system consists of 206 bones, as well as a network of tendons, ligaments and cartilage that connects them. The skeletal system performs vital functions — support, movement, protection, blood cell production, calcium storage and endocrine regulation — that enable us to survive. Muscles connect to your skeleton and they contract and move the skeleton along. Your skeletal system is made up of cartilage and calcified bone that work together. They help the process of movement happen in a smoother manner. The calcified bones of your skeleton also work with the circulatory system.

The skeletal system is
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Protection: An important function of the skeletal system is the protection of vital internal organs. The skull protects the brain just as the rib cage protects the heart, lungs, and abdominal organs. Being encased and protected allowed these organs to develop and to increase in size and performance. Without protection from bones, a simple bump to the head or abdomen could be a fatal injury.

Movement: In combination with the muscular system, the skeletal system provides for bodily motion. Skeletal muscles are attached to bones by tendons. The tendons act as a lever to move bones. All bones are pulled by muscles, not pushed, so each moveable bone must be strong enough to withstand the pulling force exerted upon it.

Mineral and Energy Storage: The outer layers of bony tissues are used for the storage of minerals, primarily calcium and phosphorus. Deposits and withdrawals of mineral ions from bone are continuous, which helps to maintain blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Yellow marrow, found in the shaft of long bones and other mature bones, consists mostly of fat and serves as an energy

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