Chest cavity is surrounded bya)12 pair of ribs b)10 pair of ribsc)11 p...
The thoracic cavity is surrounded by a bony skeleton, with 12 ribs on each side originating from their respective thoracic vertebrae posteriorly and extending anteriorly. The upper seven ribs are connected directly to the sternum via their respective costal cartilages, whereas the 8th to 10th ribs are connected to the sternum via a fused common costal cartilage and the lower two ribs remain free floating and unconnected with the sternum. This skeletal structure provides optimal protection to the intrathoracic organs against all but the most significant trauma.
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Chest cavity is surrounded bya)12 pair of ribs b)10 pair of ribsc)11 p...
The thoracic cavity is surrounded by a bony skeleton, with 12 ribs on each side originating from their respective thoracic vertebrae posteriorly and extending anteriorly. The upper seven ribs are connected directly to the sternum via their respective costal cartilages, whereas the 8th to 10th ribs are connected to the sternum via a fused common costal cartilage and the lower two ribs remain free floating and unconnected with the sternum.
Chest cavity is surrounded bya)12 pair of ribs b)10 pair of ribsc)11 p...
Chest cavity is surrounded by 12 pairs of ribs
The chest cavity, also known as the thoracic cavity, is surrounded by a total of 12 pairs of ribs. These ribs play a significant role in protecting the vital organs within the chest, such as the heart and lungs. Each rib is attached to the spine at the back and curves around to meet the sternum, or breastbone, at the front.
The Structure of Ribs
Ribs can be divided into three main categories: true ribs, false ribs, and floating ribs.
1. True Ribs: The first seven pairs of ribs are known as true ribs. Each true rib is attached to the sternum through its own strip of cartilage, called costal cartilage.
2. False Ribs: The next three pairs of ribs, from the eighth to the tenth, are called false ribs. Unlike true ribs, their costal cartilages are not directly attached to the sternum. Instead, they are connected to the sternum through the cartilage of the rib above them.
3. Floating Ribs: The last two pairs of ribs, the eleventh and twelfth, are referred to as floating ribs. These ribs do not have any attachment to the sternum or other ribs and are only connected to the spine.
The Function of Ribs
1. Protection: The main function of the ribs is to protect the vital organs in the chest cavity, such as the heart and lungs, from external forces or injury. The curved structure of the ribs acts as a shield, providing a protective barrier around these organs.
2. Support: Ribs also play a crucial role in providing support to the thoracic cavity. They help maintain the shape and structure of the chest, allowing it to function properly.
3. Respiration: The ribs are involved in the process of respiration. They expand and contract to allow the lungs to expand during inhalation and compress during exhalation. This movement is facilitated by the intercostal muscles located between the ribs.
In Conclusion
The chest cavity is surrounded by 12 pairs of ribs, which provide protection, support, and assist in respiration. Understanding the structure and function of ribs is important in comprehending the anatomy and physiology of the thoracic cavity.