Skeletal System Test Review

Which bones are primarily responsible for supporting the weight of the body? Choose the best answer for each question.

• Skull and ribs

• Vertebral column and pelvis

• Hands and feet

• Arms and shoulders

Answer explanation

The vertebral column and pelvis are crucial for supporting the body's weight. The vertebral column provides structural support and stability, while the pelvis helps distribute weight to the lower limbs.

How do bones facilitate movement? Choose the best answer for each question.

• By storing energy

• By acting as levers for muscles

• By absorbing shock

• By producing hormones

Answer explanation

Bones facilitate movement by acting as levers for muscles. When muscles contract, they pull on bones, allowing for movement at joints, similar to how a lever operates.

Why is the vertebral column important for overall body function? Choose the best answer for each question.

• It protects the heart.

• It supports the skull.

• It houses the spinal cord and enables movement.

• It stores minerals.

Answer explanation

The vertebral column is crucial as it houses the spinal cord, which is essential for transmitting nerve signals, and it enables movement by providing structural support and flexibility to the body.

What role do joints play in the skeletal system? Choose the best answer for each question.

• They produce blood cells.

• They connect bones and allow for movement.

• They store calcium.

• They protect organs.

Answer explanation

Joints are crucial in the skeletal system as they connect bones and facilitate movement, allowing the body to perform various actions. The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of joints.

How does the structure of bones contribute to their function? Choose the best answer for each question.

Answer explanation

The structure of bones, being dense and strong, provides support and protection for organs, while their lightweight nature allows for mobility. The arrangement of compact and spongy bone tissue optimizes strength and flexibility, essential for movement.

Which of the following best describes the relationship between muscles and bones during movement?

• Muscles push bones to create movement.

• Bones pull on muscles to create movement.

• Muscles and bones work together as levers.

• Bones and muscles do not interact during movement.

Answer explanation

Muscles and bones work together as levers during movement. Muscles contract to pull on bones, creating movement at the joints, which act as pivot points, demonstrating the lever system in the body.

What is the primary function of the pelvis in the skeletal system?

• To protect the lungs

• To support the upper body

• To connect the spine to the legs and support weight

• To store fat

Answer explanation

The primary function of the pelvis is to connect the spine to the legs and support weight, allowing for bipedal movement and stability. It plays a crucial role in bearing the body's weight during activities like walking and standing.

In what way do bones contribute to the production of blood?

• Bones do not play a role in blood production.

• They store blood until needed.

• They contain marrow, which produces blood cells.

• They filter blood.

Answer explanation

Bones contain bone marrow, which is the primary site for blood cell production, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This makes them essential for the formation of blood.

Which of the following statements about bone density is true?

• Bone density increases with age.

• High bone density makes bones weaker.

• Low bone density can lead to fractures.

• Bone density is unrelated to physical activity.

Answer explanation

Low bone density can lead to fractures because it indicates weaker bones that are more susceptible to breaking under stress or impact. The other statements are incorrect regarding bone density.

How does the skeletal system protect vital organs?

• By creating a barrier around them

• By providing a flexible structure

• By surrounding them with soft tissue

• By forming hard structures that shield them

Answer explanation

The skeletal system protects vital organs by forming hard structures, such as the skull and ribcage, that shield them from physical damage, ensuring their safety and integrity.