Question

the spinal column protects the spinal cord and supports the head and body. the spinal column consists of 26 _, the bony structural units. vertebrae lamina intervertebral disks synovial membrane the term lateral means refers to _. toward or near the midline toward or near the side of the body situated in the front situated in the back ____ creates a smooth surface for motion within the joints and protects the ends of the bones. synovial membrane synovial fluid ligaments cartilage

Explanation:

1. The spinal column's bony structural units are individual vertebrae, totaling 26 in adults. Lamina are parts of a vertebra, intervertebral disks are cushioning structures between vertebrae, and synovial membrane lines joint cavities, so they do not fit the description of the bony units.
2. In anatomical terminology, "lateral" specifically describes a position toward or near the side of the body. Toward the midline is medial, front is anterior, and back is posterior.
3. Cartilage covers the ends of bones in joints, creating a smooth surface for frictionless motion and protecting the bone ends. Synovial membrane produces fluid, synovial fluid lubricates the joint, and ligaments connect bones, so they do not match the described function.

Answer:

1. vertebrae
2. toward or near the side of the body
3. cartilage