A skeleton is a framework that supports and protects the body of some animals. In humans, this framework is made up largely from bone and cartilage. Bone helps to give strength to the framework whilst cartilage at the joints allows movement to take place.
Skeletons have a number of functions:
- It protects important parts of the body such as the brain (skull), internal organs (ribs) and the spinal cord (backbone);
- It gives support and shape, allowing humans to stand up;
- It allows movement to take place using the muscles that are attached to the bones by strong fibrous tissue called tendons.
