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The cervical vertebra called axis provides head with sideways rotation. This can be because
  • a)
    it is articulated to skull through occipital condyles
  • b)
    it is fused with 1st vertebra atlas
  • c)
    it is joined through elastic pads of fibrocartilage with other vertebrae, which provide mobility
  • d)
    it contains odontoid process that fits into the odontoid canal of atlas
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?
Most Upvoted Answer
The cervical vertebra called axis provides head with sideways rotation...
Explanation:

The correct answer is option D - it contains the odontoid process that fits into the odontoid canal of the atlas. Let's break down the explanation:

The Axis Vertebra:
- The axis vertebra, also known as the second cervical vertebra (C2), is an essential component of the cervical spine.
- It is located just below the atlas vertebra (C1) and plays a crucial role in the rotation of the head.

The Odontoid Process:
- The axis vertebra has a unique feature called the odontoid process, also known as the dens.
- The odontoid process is a bony projection that extends superiorly from the body of the axis vertebra.
- It resembles a tooth and fits into the odontoid canal of the atlas vertebra.

Relationship between the Axis and Atlas:
- The atlas vertebra and the axis vertebra are closely connected and work together to allow for various movements of the head and neck.
- The odontoid process of the axis fits into the odontoid canal of the atlas, forming a pivot joint called the atlantoaxial joint.
- This joint allows for the rotational movement of the head.

Rotation of the Head:
- The pivotal articulation between the odontoid process and the atlas allows the head to rotate from side to side.
- This rotation is crucial for activities such as looking over the shoulder or turning the head to face sideways.

Other Options:
- Option A (articulation with occipital condyles): While the occipital condyles do contribute to the movement of the head, they are more involved in the flexion and extension of the neck.
- Option B (fusion with the atlas): The axis and atlas are separate vertebrae and are not fused together.
- Option C (elastic pads of fibrocartilage): Elastic pads of fibrocartilage, known as intervertebral discs, are present between consecutive vertebrae in the spine. They provide cushioning and allow for flexibility but are not directly involved in the rotation of the head.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D, as the odontoid process of the axis fitting into the odontoid canal of the atlas enables the head to rotate sideways.
Community Answer
The cervical vertebra called axis provides head with sideways rotation...
Explanation:

The correct answer is option 'D', which states that the axis vertebra contains an odontoid process that fits into the odontoid canal of the atlas. This anatomical feature allows for the sideways rotation of the head.

Axis Vertebra:
- The axis vertebra is the second cervical vertebra (C2) in the vertebral column.
- It is characterized by a bony projection called the odontoid process or dens.

Atlas Vertebra:
- The atlas vertebra is the first cervical vertebra (C1) in the vertebral column.
- It is responsible for supporting the skull and allowing for the flexion and extension of the head.

Odontoid Process:
- The odontoid process is a bony projection that extends upward from the body of the axis vertebra.
- It resembles a tooth and is also called the dens.
- The odontoid process specifically fits into the odontoid canal (also known as the vertebral foramen) of the atlas vertebra.

Function:
- The odontoid process of the axis vertebra articulates with the atlas vertebra, forming a pivot joint called the atlantoaxial joint.
- This joint allows for the rotational movement of the head, specifically the sideways rotation or rotation to the left and right.
- The axis vertebra with its odontoid process acts as a pivot point for the atlas vertebra, enabling the head to turn.

Conclusion:
- The correct answer is option 'D' because the odontoid process of the axis vertebra fits into the odontoid canal of the atlas vertebra, allowing for the sideways rotation of the head.
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Question Description
The cervical vertebra called axis provides head with sideways rotation. This can be becausea)it is articulated to skull through occipital condylesb)it is fused with 1st vertebra atlasc)it is joined through elastic pads of fibrocartilage with other vertebrae, which provide mobilityd)it contains odontoid process that fits into the odontoid canal of atlasCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer? for GATE 2025 is part of GATE preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the GATE exam syllabus. Information about The cervical vertebra called axis provides head with sideways rotation. This can be becausea)it is articulated to skull through occipital condylesb)it is fused with 1st vertebra atlasc)it is joined through elastic pads of fibrocartilage with other vertebrae, which provide mobilityd)it contains odontoid process that fits into the odontoid canal of atlasCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer? covers all topics & solutions for GATE 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for The cervical vertebra called axis provides head with sideways rotation. This can be becausea)it is articulated to skull through occipital condylesb)it is fused with 1st vertebra atlasc)it is joined through elastic pads of fibrocartilage with other vertebrae, which provide mobilityd)it contains odontoid process that fits into the odontoid canal of atlasCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?.
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