Major bone (tan) and cartilage (light blue) elements of the human skeleton. Inset shows regions of v

A Skull
Cranial bones Bones of the braincase (cranium)
Facial bones Bones of the face and jaws
B Rib Cage Encloses the thoracic cavity; protects heart, lungs, functions in breathing Sternum (breastbone)
Ribs (12 pairs)
C Vertebral Column (backbone)
Vertebrae (26 bones)
Enclose and protect the spinal cord; support skull; attachment site for muscles
Intervertebral disks Cartilage structures between vertebrae; cushion vertebrae and serve as flex points
Connects arms to axial skeleton; attachment point for muscles Clavicle (collarbone)Scapula (shoulder blade)
D Pectoral Girdle Bones of the Arm
Humerus (upper arm bone)
Radius (forearm bone)
Ulna (forearm bone)
Carpals (wrist bones)
Metacarpals (palm bones)
Phalanges (finger, thumb bones)
F Pelvic Girdle (hip bones and pubic arch) Supports weight of backbone, protects pelvic organs, connects leg to axial skeleton
G Bones of the Leg
Femur (thighbone) Body’s largest weight-bearing bone
Patella (kneecap)
Tibia Weight-bearing bone of the lower leg
Fibula No weight-bearing role; attachment site for muscles
Tarsals (ankle bones)
Metatarsals (bones of sole)
Phalanges (toe bones)