Question

complete the following statements: 1. the vertebral column encloses and protects the 2. the number of separate bones in the vertebral column of an adult is 3. the of the vertebrae support the weight of the head and trunk. 4. the intervertebral foramina provide passageways for 5. transverse foramina of cervical vertebrae serve as passageways for leading to the brain. 6. the first vertebra is also called the 7. the second vertebra is also called the 8. when the head is moved from side to side, the first vertebra pivots around the of the second vertebra. 9. the vertebrae have the largest and strongest bodies. 10. the typical number of vertebrae that fuse in the adult to form the sacrum is 11. the upper, anterior margin of the sacrum that projects forward is called the 12. an opening called the exists at the tip of the sacral canal.

Explanation:

1. The vertebral column encloses and protects the spinal cord.
2. An adult vertebral column has 26 separate bones (including the sacrum and coccyx which are fused in adulthood).
3. The bodies of the vertebrae support the weight of the head and trunk.
4. Intervertebral foramina provide passageways for spinal nerves.
5. Transverse foramina of cervical vertebrae serve as passageways for the vertebral arteries leading to the brain.
6. The first vertebra is also called the atlas.
7. The second vertebra is also called the axis.
8. When the head moves side - to - side, the first vertebra pivots around the dens (odontoid process) of the second vertebra.
9. The lumbar vertebrae have the largest and strongest bodies.
10. Five vertebrae fuse in the adult to form the sacrum.
11. The upper, anterior margin of the sacrum that projects forward is called the promontory.
12. An opening called the sacral hiatus exists at the tip of the sacral canal.

Answer:

1. spinal cord
2. 26
3. bodies
4. spinal nerves
5. vertebral arteries
6. atlas
7. axis
8. dens (odontoid process)
9. lumbar
10. 5
11. promontory
12. sacral hiatus