$$BMD = \frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}}$$

Question 1

Which structure is responsible for housing osteocytes within compact bone?

Accepted Answer

Lacunae

Question 2

A patient presents with a fracture at the surgical neck of the humerus. Which nearby anatomical landmark is most likely to be affected?

Accepted Answer

Axillary nerve

Question 3

Which bone contains the foramen magnum?

Accepted Answer

Occipital bone

Question 4

The only movable joint in the skull is the:

Accepted Answer

Mandibular condyle and temporal bone (temporomandibular joint)

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the function of canaliculi in compact bone?

Accepted Answer

They connect lacunae, allowing exchange of nutrients and waste between osteocytes.

Question 6

If a bone is soaked in acid, which component is primarily removed, and what is the resulting characteristic of the bone?

Accepted Answer

Calcium salts are removed, making the bone flexible.

Question 7

Which of the following structures is found in the atlas (C1) vertebra but not in other cervical vertebrae?

Accepted Answer

No body

Question 8

Which part of the scapula articulates with the head of the humerus?

Accepted Answer

Glenoid cavity

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

To allow the skull to change shape during birth

Question 10

Which ribs are called 'floating ribs' and why?

Accepted Answer

Ribs 11-12; because they do not attach to the sternum at all

Question 11

Which structure forms the lateral projection of the ankle?

Accepted Answer

Lateral malleolus of fibula

Question 12

Which bone is commonly referred to as the 'shin'?

Accepted Answer

Tibia

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone?

Accepted Answer

Passage of olfactory nerves

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the difference between compact bone and spongy bone?

Accepted Answer

Compact bone contains osteons, while spongy bone contains trabeculae.

Question 15

Which of the following is the correct formula for calculating bone mineral density (BMD) if mass and volume are known?

Accepted Answer

$$BMD = \frac{	ext{mass}}{	ext{volume}}$$

Question 16

A patient has a congenital condition where the laminae of vertebrae fail to close, leaving the spinal cord exposed. What is this condition called?

Accepted Answer

Spina bifida

Question 17

Which part of the humerus is a common site of fractures, especially in elderly patients?

Accepted Answer

Surgical neck

Question 18

Which structure is the point of attachment for the biceps muscle on the radius?

Accepted Answer

Radial tuberosity

Question 19

Which bone forms the anterior portion of the hard palate?

Accepted Answer

Maxilla

Question 20

Which of the following is true about the fetal skull fontanels?

Accepted Answer

They allow for expansion and growth of the brain.

Skeletal System: Structure, Function, and Key Landmarks

Study Guide - Practice Questions