Question

The number of floating ribs in human body is (a) 6 pairs (b) 3 pairs (c) 5 pairs (d) 2 pairs

Short answer

(d) 2 pairs

Step-by-step solution

Identify what the exercise is asking

The exercise is asking for the number of pairs of 'floating ribs' in the human body.

Understanding What Floating Ribs Are

In the human anatomy, 'floating ribs' is a term that refers to the 11th and 12th pair of ribs that do not connect to the sternum or to the cartilage of other ribs. Therefore, they are described as 'floating'.

Answer the question based on anatomical knowledge

Based on this knowledge of human anatomy, it can be stated that there are 2 pairs of floating ribs in the human body.

Key concepts

Understanding Ribs

The human anatomy includes several critical structures, and ribs are an essential part of the skeletal system. Ribs are curved bones that form the rib cage, providing the thorax with endurance and protection. In the human body, there are a total of 24 ribs, organized into 12 pairs. These ribs serve crucial functions:

• They protect vital organs like the heart and lungs.
• They support breathing by creating a flexible yet stable cage for the respiratory system.
• They provide attachment points for muscles such as those needed for respiration and movement of the shoulder and arms.

The ribs are connected to the spine at the back and vary in how they attach at the front, which leads to different classifications like true ribs, false ribs, and floating ribs.

Decoding Floating Ribs

Floating ribs are unique types of ribs found in the rib cage. These are actually the 11th and 12th pairs of ribs, and unlike the other rib pairs, floating ribs do not attach to the sternum at all.

• Their name, 'floating,' comes from their lack of attachment to the sternum or costal cartilage, which gives them extra mobility compared to other ribs.
• Floating ribs are shorter than most other ribs, which is a distinguishing feature.
• Being unattached at the front makes them more prone to injuries, but their flexibility aids in various movements.

In a typical human anatomical setup, there are exactly 2 pairs of floating ribs, making them an important distinction when studying skeletal anatomy.

Exploring the Skeletal System

The skeletal system is an interconnected framework that supports the human body. It is made up of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and other connective tissues. The skeleton not only shapes the body but also plays crucial roles in various bodily functions:

• It provides structural support and balance.
• It safeguards the organs by enclosing them within bony cavities – for example, the rib cage protects the heart and lungs.
• It is vital for movement since bones serve as levers for muscle action.
• It also serves as a mineral reservoir, storing essential minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.
• Additionally, the skeletal system produces blood cells in the bone marrow, a process known as hematopoiesis.

Learning about the detailed structure and classification of the skeletal system, including understanding specific components like the ribs, enriches one's knowledge about human anatomy and its intricate design.