1.6.5

The Skeleton

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The Human Skeleton

The skeletal system is an organ system in many animals that has a variety of functions.

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Uses of the skeleton

  • The skeleton supports the organism. The skeleton allows the organism to stand up, among other things.
  • The skeleton is made from a very rigid material (bone) and so is used to protect vulnerable parts of the body, such as the brain, heart and lungs.
  • Because of attached muscles, the skeleton allows the animal to move.
  • The skeleton is also responsible for making blood cells.
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The skeleton and muscles

  • The bones of the skeleton are held to one another by ligaments.
  • The muscles are connected to the bone through tendons.

Jump to other topics

1Biology

1.1Cells, Tissues & Organs

1.2Reproduction & Variation

1.3Ecological Relationships & Classification

1.4Digestion & Nutrition

1.5Plants & Photosynthesis

1.6Biological Systems & Processes

2Chemistry

2.1Particles

2.2Chemical Reactions

2.3Atoms, Elements, Compounds

2.4The Periodic Table

2.5Materials & the Earth

2.6Reactivity

2.7Energetics

2.8Properties of Materials

3Physics

3.1Energy

3.2Forces & Motion

3.3Waves

3.4Electricity & Magnetism

3.5Matter

3.6Space Physics

4Thinking Scientifically

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