Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 40m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 37m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 7m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood1h 22m
18. The Heart1h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

7. The Skeletal System

The Spine

Anatomy & Physiology

7. The Skeletal System

The Spine

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1:50 minutes

Problem 13

Textbook Question

List at least two specific anatomical characteristics each for typical cervical, thoracic, and lumbar vertebrae that would allow anyone to identify each type correctly.

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the typical cervical vertebrae by looking for the presence of transverse foramina, which are openings in the transverse processes that allow the passage of the vertebral arteries.

Note the bifid (split) spinous process in typical cervical vertebrae, which is a distinguishing feature not found in thoracic or lumbar vertebrae.

Recognize thoracic vertebrae by their long, downward-sloping spinous processes, which are designed to overlap and provide protection to the spinal cord.

Observe the presence of costal facets on the thoracic vertebrae, which are small, smooth areas on the sides of the vertebral body and transverse processes for articulation with the ribs.

Identify lumbar vertebrae by their large, robust bodies, which are necessary to support the weight of the upper body, and their short, thick spinous processes, which provide attachment points for strong back muscles.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Cervical Vertebrae Characteristics

Cervical vertebrae, typically seven in number, are characterized by their small size and the presence of transverse foramina, which allow for the passage of vertebral arteries. Additionally, the spinous processes of cervical vertebrae are often bifid (split), which is a distinctive feature that helps differentiate them from thoracic and lumbar vertebrae.

Thoracic Vertebrae Characteristics

Thoracic vertebrae, numbering twelve, are identifiable by their larger size compared to cervical vertebrae and the presence of costal facets, which articulate with the ribs. Their spinous processes are long and angled downward, providing a unique shape that distinguishes them from both cervical and lumbar vertebrae.

Lumbar Vertebrae Characteristics

Lumbar vertebrae consist of five large and robust bones that support the lower back. They are characterized by their thick, broad bodies and short, blunt spinous processes, which are oriented horizontally. This structure provides stability and strength, differentiating them from the more delicate cervical and thoracic vertebrae.

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