Classification of bones

• What are the 4 types of classifications of bones in the human skeleton?

  • long bones
  • short bones
  • irregular bones
  • flat bones
• Long bones

  • bones that are longer than they are wide
  • play a key part in leverage and movement
  • e.g. femur
• Short bones

  • bones that are box-like in shape
  • designed to be weight-bearing
• Flat bones

  • Thin, plate bones that act like a shell
  • Provide protection and a large surface area to which muscles can attach
  • e.g. cranium
• Irregular bones

  • unusually shaped bones
  • provide protection and a large surface to which muscles can attach
  • e.g. vertebrae