| Term | Definition |
|---|
| cervical vertebra - typical | vertebral type containing foramina in transverse processes, through which vertebral arteries ascend to reach the brain |
| axis | dens here provides a pivot for rotation of first vertebra (C1) |
| thoracic vertebra | transverse processes faceted for articulation with ribs, spinous process pointing sharply downward |
| sacrum | composite bone, articulates with hip bone laterally |
| lumbar vertebra | massive vertebrae, weight sustaining |
| coccyx | tail bone, vestigial fused vertebrae |
| atlas | supports the head, allows a rocking motion in conjunction with occipital condyles |
| vertebral foramen | cavity enclosing nerve cord |
| body | weight-bearing portion of vertebra |
| spinous and transverse processes | provide levers against which muscles pull |
| body and transverse process | articulation points for ribs |
| intervertebral foramina | opening providing for exit of spinal nerves |
| body and vertebral arch | form enclosure for spinal cord |
| cervical | 7 vertebrae, secondary curvature, concave |
| lumbar | 5 vertebrae, secondary curvature, concave |
| thoracic | 12 vertebrae, primary curvature, convex |
| sacral | 5 fused bones, primary curvature, convex |
| true ribs | pairs 1 - 7, connect to sternum via costal cartilages |
| false ribs | pairs 8 - 12, attach indirectly to sternum or not at all |
| floating ribs | pairs 11 - 12, no attachment to sternum |
| bony thorax | sternum and ribs |
| manubrium | top of sternum, looks like knot of a tie |
| xiphoid process | bottom of sternum, hyaline cartilage in children, ossified as adult |
Combine with other sets
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