Question 1

Which of the following statements best describes the function of fontanels in the fetal skull?

Accepted Answer

They permit rapid growth of the brain during infancy and help the skull modify its size and shape as it passes through the birth canal.

Question 2

A patient presents with an exaggerated thoracic curvature of the vertebral column. Which condition is most likely present?

Accepted Answer

Kyphosis

Question 3

Which bone is unique because it does NOT articulate with any other bone and serves as an attachment for tongue and neck muscles?

Accepted Answer

Hyoid bone

Question 4

A 65-year-old woman is diagnosed with osteoporosis. Which of the following best explains the pathophysiology of this condition?

Accepted Answer

Bone resorption outpaces bone formation, leading to decreased bone mass and strength.

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the arrangement of bones in the human foot?

Accepted Answer

The foot contains 7 tarsals, 5 metatarsals, and 14 phalanges, with the tarsals forming the ankle.

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

$$206 = 80 + 126$$

Question 7

A patient has a congenital defect where the laminae fail to unite at the midline of the vertebral column. What is the name of this condition?

Accepted Answer

Spina bifida

Question 8

Which of the following bones is NOT part of the axial skeleton?

Accepted Answer

Femur

Question 9

Which of the following statements about the pelvic girdle is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

Each coxal bone is composed of three separate bones at birth: ilium, pubis, and ischium.

Question 10

A male and female skeleton are compared. Which anatomical feature is most likely to differ due to the need for childbirth?

Accepted Answer

The angle of the pubic arch is greater in females than in males.

Question 11

Which of the following is a function of the intervertebral discs?

Accepted Answer

They absorb vertical shock and permit various movements of the vertebral column.

Question 12

A patient with Paget's disease is likely to exhibit which of the following bone characteristics?

Accepted Answer

Massive osteoclast resorption and extensive bone formation, leading to soft and weak bones.

Question 13

Which of the following bones forms the socket for the hip joint?

Accepted Answer

Acetabulum

Question 14

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the arrangement of phalanges in the human hand?

Accepted Answer

Each hand contains 14 phalanges, three in each finger and two in each thumb.

Question 15

Which of the following equations correctly represents the number of bones in the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 16

Which of the following is a distinguishing feature of the thoracic vertebrae compared to other vertebrae?

Accepted Answer

They have facets for rib articulation.

Question 17

A patient is diagnosed with lordosis. Which of the following best describes this condition?

Accepted Answer

An exaggeration of the lumbar curve.

Question 18

Which of the following bones is classified as a sesamoid bone and increases the leverage of the quadriceps femoris muscle?

Accepted Answer

Patella

Question 19

Which of the following statements about the male and female skeletons is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

Male bones are generally larger and heavier, with more well-defined muscle attachment points.

Question 20

Which of the following is a function of the thoracic cage?

Accepted Answer

It protects vital organs in the chest and upper abdomen and provides support for the shoulder girdle and upper extremities.

The Skeletal System: Axial and Appendicular Skeleton Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions