Hover over a hexagon for more information The Functions of the skeleton Hover over a hexagon for more information Support Produce blood cells Protection Functions Fat and Mineral storage Movement

Support The Functions of the skeleton Bones act as a structural framework providing shape and support for the body. Without this structural framework we would be like a piece of jelly! Support Produce blood cells Protection Functions Fat and Mineral storage Movement

Protection The Functions of the skeleton Bones provide protection for many internal organs, for example the ribs protect the heart and lungs, the skull protects the brain, and the vertebrae protect the spinal cord. Support Produce blood cells Protection Functions Fat and Mineral storage Movement

Movement The Functions of the skeleton The skeleton provides a large surface area for muscle attachment. When skeletal muscles contract, they pull on bones at a joint to produce movement. Support Produce blood cells Protection Functions Fat and Mineral storage Movement

Red and white blood cell production The Functions of the skeleton Red and white blood cell production Both red and white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow cavities of larger bones, e.g. the femur and pelvic girdle. Red blood cells manufacture haemoglobin and are responsible for the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide around the body. White blood cells help protect the body from infection. Support Produce blood cells Protection Functions Fat and Mineral storage Movement

Storage of fats and minerals The Functions of the skeleton Storage of fats and minerals Bone tissue stores several minerals, the main ones being calcium and phosphorus both of which play an important role in the strength of bones. In adults the medullary cavity of long bones contains yellow bone marrow which stores fat (adipose cells). Support Produce blood cells Protection Functions Fat and Mineral storage Movement