Q: Which equation best represents the total number of bones in the adult human axial skeleton?

$$80 = 22 \text{ (skull) } + 26 \text{ (vertebral column) } + 25 \text{ (thoracic cage) } + 7 \text{ (miscellaneous) }$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of the axial skeleton?

Accepted Answer

It supports and protects organs in the dorsal and ventral body cavities, and forms the longitudinal axis of the body.

Question 2

A patient presents with an inability to rotate their head side to side, as if indicating 'no.' Which vertebra is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Axis (C2)

Question 3

Which of the following is a distinguishing feature of cervical vertebrae (C3–C7) compared to thoracic and lumbar vertebrae?

Accepted Answer

Presence of transverse foramina in the transverse processes

Question 4

Which equation best represents the total number of bones in the adult human axial skeleton?

Accepted Answer

$$80 = 22 	ext{ (skull) } + 26 	ext{ (vertebral column) } + 25 	ext{ (thoracic cage) } + 7 	ext{ (miscellaneous) }$$

Question 5

A newborn's skull contains fontanelles. What is the primary function of these structures?

Accepted Answer

To allow for compression of the skull during birth and brain growth after birth

Question 6

Which of the following statements about the sacrum is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is formed from five fused vertebrae and articulates superiorly with L5 and inferiorly with the coccyx.

Question 7

Which suture is located where the parietal bones meet the occipital bone posteriorly?

Accepted Answer

Lambdoid suture

Question 8

A patient suffers a fracture to the vertebra with a bifid spinous process and transverse foramina. Which region of the vertebral column is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Cervical

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why the lumbar vertebrae are more robust than cervical vertebrae?

Accepted Answer

They support more body weight and allow for flexion and extension.

Question 10

Which of the following is true regarding the articulation of ribs with the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

Ribs 1–10 articulate with both the bodies and transverse processes of thoracic vertebrae.

Question 11

Which of the following bones is NOT a paired cranial bone?

Accepted Answer

Frontal bone

Question 12

A patient has a herniated disc between L4 and L5. Which movement is most likely to be affected?

Accepted Answer

Flexion and extension of the lower back

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the function of the dens (odontoid process) of the axis?

Accepted Answer

It acts as a pivot for rotation of the atlas and skull.

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct description of the thoracic cage?

Accepted Answer

It consists of the sternum, ribs, and thoracic vertebrae.

Question 15

Which of the following equations correctly represents the number of vertebrae in each region of the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

$$7 	ext{ (cervical)} + 12 	ext{ (thoracic)} + 5 	ext{ (lumbar)} + 5 	ext{ (sacral, fused)} + 4 	ext{ (coccygeal, fused)} = 33$$

Question 16

Which of the following is a unique feature of thoracic vertebrae?

Accepted Answer

Presence of demifacets for rib articulation

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of the paranasal sinuses?

Accepted Answer

They lighten the skull and enhance resonance of the voice.

Question 18

Which of the following is true regarding the coccyx?

Accepted Answer

It is formed from 3–5 fused vertebrae and offers only slight support to pelvic organs.

Question 19

A patient presents with a fracture at the squamous suture. Which bones are most likely involved?

Accepted Answer

Parietal and temporal bones

Question 20

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

Accepted Answer

Producing hormones for calcium regulation

Bones, Part 1: The Axial Skeleton – Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards