Question 1

Which of the following correctly lists the number of bones in each region of the vertebral column in an adult human?

Accepted Answer

7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 1 sacrum (5 fused), 1 coccyx (4 fused)

Question 2

Which body cavity is bordered in part by the thoracic cage and contains the heart and lungs?

Accepted Answer

Thoracic cavity

Question 3

A patient presents with a fracture to the manubrium. Which structure is most likely to be directly affected?

Accepted Answer

The superior portion of the sternum

Question 4

Which of the following features is unique to cervical vertebrae?

Accepted Answer

Transverse foramen

Question 5

During inspiration, the rib cage moves in a way that increases the volume of the thoracic cavity. Which mechanism best describes this movement?

Accepted Answer

Combination of bucket handle and pump handle movements

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the function of the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

Support, protection, movement, metabolic storage, and hematopoiesis

Question 7

A typical thoracic vertebra can be distinguished from other vertebrae by which feature?

Accepted Answer

Articular facets for ribs

Question 8

Which equation best represents the total number of bones in the adult vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

$7 + 12 + 5 + 1 + 1 = 26$

Question 9

A patient with exaggerated lumbar curvature is diagnosed with which condition?

Accepted Answer

Lordosis

Question 10

Which of the following statements about the rib cage is correct?

Accepted Answer

It consists of 24 ribs and 3 bones of the sternum

Question 11

Which vertebral region is characterized by a robust, short, and stumpy spinous process and a large round body?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar

Question 12

A rib articulates with the vertebral column at which two main points?

Accepted Answer

The head of the rib and the tubercle of the rib

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the function of the costal groove on a rib?

Accepted Answer

It provides a pathway for nerves and blood vessels

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a function of the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

Production of digestive enzymes

Question 15

Atypical cervical vertebrae include which of the following?

Accepted Answer

C1, C2, and C7

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the movement of the thoracic cage during forced inspiration?

Accepted Answer

The ribs elevate and move outward, increasing thoracic volume

Question 17

Which of the following is a correct description of the mediastinum?

Accepted Answer

It is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity, between the pleural cavities

Question 18

Which of the following equations correctly represents the total number of bones in the rib cage?

Accepted Answer

$24 + 3 = 27$

Question 19

A patient with a spinal injury is found to have damage to the vertebral canal. Which structure is most at risk?

Accepted Answer

Spinal cord

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why the vertebral column is curved rather than straight?

Accepted Answer

Curves increase strength, flexibility, and shock absorption

Axial Skeleton: Vertebral Column & Thoracic Cage Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions