Miss Angla's Biology Class: Appendicular Skeleton

Introduction

• Focus: Appendicular skeleton (follow-on from axial skeleton)
• Appendicular skeleton includes arms, legs, and pelvis (not central body column)
• Purpose: Labeling bones and understanding functions in tests/exams

Functions of Appendicular Skeleton

1. Attaches lower limbs to axial skeleton
2. Transmits upper body weight to lower body
   • Lower body stronger than upper body
3. Supports and protects pelvic area organs
   • Urinary, reproductive, digestive systems
4. Provides attachment points for muscles

Pectoral Girdle (Upper Limb Bones)

• Scapula (Shoulder Blade): Wing-like bone at the back of arms
• Clavicle (Collarbone): Stretches across chest, supports muscle attachment
• Humerus: Largest bone in the upper arm
• Forearm Bones:
  • Radius: Aligned with thumb
  • Ulna: Opposite radius
• Hand Bones:
  • Carpals: Wrist bones
  • Metacarpals: Palm bones
  • Phalanges: Finger bones

Pelvic Girdle (Lower Body)

• Pelvic Bones: Fusion of three bones
  • Ilium: Large wing-like bone
  • Ischium: Bone you sit on
  • Pubis: Meets in the front
• Acetabulum: Socket for femur insertion

Lower Limb Bones

• Femur: Largest and densest bone, supports upper body
• Patella (Kneecap): Cap-like bone on knee
• Lower Leg Bones:
  • Tibia: Larger inner bone
  • Fibula: Smaller outer bone
• Foot Bones:
  • Tarsals: Ankle bones
  • Metatarsals: Arch of foot
  • Phalanges: Toe bones

Terminology Recap

• Pectoral Girdle: Scapula, clavicle, humerus, radius, ulna
• Hand Bones: Carpals, metacarpals, phalanges
• Pelvic Girdle: Ilium, ischium, pubis
• Lower Limb: Femur, tibia, fibula, patella
• Foot Bones: Tarsals, metatarsals, phalanges

Study Tip: Create flashcards using the terminology for efficient study sessions.