Learning
1. Which of the following is NOT a function of the skeletal system?
A) Support
B) Protection
C) Hematopoiesis
D) Thermoregulation
Correct Answer: Thermoregulation
Rationale: The skeletal system provides support, protection of internal
organs, hematopoiesis (blood cell production), mineral storage, and
movement facilitation. Thermoregulation is a function of the integumentary
system, not the skeletal system.
2. The axial skeleton consists of how many bones?
A) 80
B) 126
C) 206
D) 64
Correct Answer: 80
Rationale: The axial skeleton contains 80 bones, including the skull, vertebral
column, and rib cage. The appendicular skeleton contains 126 bones. The
total adult skeleton has 206 bones.
3. How many bones form the adult cranium?
A) 8
,B) 14
C) 22
D) 12
Correct Answer: 8
Rationale: The adult cranium is formed by 8 bones fitted tightly together. The
facial skeleton contains 14 bones. The total skull has 22 bones. This
distinction is essential for skeletal identification.
4. Which cranial bone contains the foramen magnum?
A) Sphenoid
B) Temporal
C) Occipital
D) Frontal
Correct Answer: Occipital
Rationale: The foramen magnum is a large opening in the occipital bone
through which the spinal cord passes to become the brainstem. This
landmark is critical in skull anatomy and is frequently tested.
5. The only movable bone of the adult skull is the:
A) Maxilla
B) Vomer
C) Mandible
D) Zygomatic
, Correct Answer: Mandible
Rationale: The mandible is the only movable bone of the skull, forming the
lower jaw and articulating at the temporomandibular joint. All other skull
bones are immovably joined by sutures in adults.
6. Which bone forms the anterior portion of the hard palate?
A) Palatine
B) Vomer
C) Maxilla
D) Ethmoid
Correct Answer: Maxilla
Rationale: The maxillae form the upper jaw and the anterior portion of the
hard palate. The palatine bones form the posterior portion of the hard palate.
This distinction is essential for oral cavity anatomy.
7. The nasal septum is formed by the vomer and which other bone?
A) Ethmoid
B) Sphenoid
C) Maxilla
D) Lacrimal
Correct Answer: Ethmoid
Rationale: The vomer joins with the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone
to form the nasal septum. This midline structure divides the nasal cavity.
Understanding this composition is essential for respiratory anatomy.