THe Skeletal System
Functions of the Skeletal System
The Skeletal System performs many functions to help us in our lives. These functions include:
- Support for our bodies
- Protection of our brain and internal organs
- Blood cell formation
- Mineral homeostasis
- Storage of fat and minerals
- Leverage
Bone Structure
Above is a diagram of a bone and its different parts. The Epiphyses are the rounded ends of long bones, while the Diaphysis is the midsection of a long bone. The bone has 3 layers, the Periosteum, which is the outer "skin" of the bone, the Compact Bone, which supports most of the weight of our bodies, and the Spongy Bone or bone marrow. Spongy bone is at the end of long bones such as the femur, humerus, and sternum, and it contains red marrow which makes red and white blood cells, as well as platelets. In the Medullary Cavity, yellow marrow is used to store fat.
