List of the 206 Bones in Our Body

Edited By Irshad Anwar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 06:45 PM IST

The human skeletal system is a very intricate framework of bones that provides structural support, protects some vital organs, and facilitates movement through its association with muscles. In an adult, there are 206 bones, which are divided into two major categories which are the axial skeleton, which includes the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, and the appendicular skeleton, consisting of limbs and girdles. This list is one of the most important in the Human Locomotion and Movement chapter in Biology.

List of the 206 Bones in Our Body

Names of the 206 Bones

The human skeleton is composed of 206 bones, which are grouped into the axial skeleton and appendicular skeleton:

Axial Skeleton (80 Bones)

This includes:

Skull (22 Bones)

Cranial Bones (8)
Facial Bones (14)

Hyoid Bone (1)

Auditory Ossicles (6)
Vertebral Column (26)
Cervical Vertebrae (7)
Thoracic Vertebrae (12)
Lumbar Vertebrae (5)
Sacrum (1)
Coccyx (1)

Thoracic Cage (25)

Sternum (1)
Ribs (24)

NEET Highest Scoring Chapters & Topics

Know Most Scoring Concepts in NEET 2024 Based on Previous Year Analysis.

Know More

Appendicular Skeleton (126 Bones)

This part of our skeleton system consists of the bones which are discussed below:

Pectoral Girdle (4)

Clavicles (2)
Scapulae (2)

Upper Limbs (60)

Humerus (2)
Radius (2)
Ulna (2)
Carpals (16)
Metacarpals (10)
Phalanges (28)

Pelvic Girdle (2)

Hip Bones (2)

Lower Limbs (60)

Femur (2)
Patella (2)
Tibia (2)
Fibula (2)
Tarsals (14)
Metatarsals (10)
Phalanges (28)

The Human Skeletal System

The human skeletal system can be considered to be divided into axial skeleton and appendicular skeleton are axial consists of 80 bones involving the skull, vertebral column, and thoracic cage that is, the central support and protection of vital organs and appendicular, composed of 126 bones of limbs and girdles like a pelvic girdle and pectoral girdle which are involved in mobility functions. Bones are composed of collagen and calcium phosphate, which serve to provide bones with strength and a little flexibility.

The Role of Bones in the Human Body

Bones support structurally and maintain the form of the human body within the human body. For example, the bones protect the organs such as the brain, the heart, and the lungs, which are among the important organs that are considered protection sites by the bones. Other important functions that bones play include their function as a mineral reserve, specifically for calcium and phosphorus, and also for hematopoiesis the production of blood cells within the bone marrow.

Anatomy of Bones

Bones are solid structures that make the skeleton of a human body, supporting, protecting, and helping it to move. Mostly made up of a collagen fibre matrix and mineral deposits in the form of calcium and phosphate, bones are both stiff and light. Outside, they have dense compact bone and inside spongy bone with bone marrow to produce blood. Bones are dynamic tissues, remodelled continuously by osteoblasts, the bone-forming cells, and osteoclasts, the bone-resorbing cells, to suit stresses or repair damage. They store minerals and maintain homeostasis in the body.

Diagram: Bone Anatomy

Also Read:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many bones does the human body have?

An adult human body contains 206 bones.

2. Which is the smallest bone of the human body?

It is the stapes, inside the middle ear.

3. How do bones grow and develop?

Bones grow and develop through ossification, including the gradual replacement of cartilage with bone.

4. What are the major functions of the bones?

Bones provide a structural framework, protection for organs, movement, mineral storage, and manufacturing sites for blood cells.

5. How does the axial skeleton differ from the appendicular skeleton?

The axial skeleton comprises the central axis bones, while the appendicular skeleton includes limb bones and girdles.

6. What's the difference between compact and spongy bone tissue?

Compact bone tissue is dense and forms the outer layer of bones. It provides strength and protection. Spongy bone tissue, also called trabecular bone, is found inside bones and has a honeycomb-like structure. It's lighter, more flexible, and contains bone marrow, where blood cells are produced.

7. Why is the spine curved instead of straight?

The spine is curved instead of straight to better distribute body weight, absorb shock, and maintain balance. Its S-shaped curve (when viewed from the side) includes cervical and lumbar lordosis (inward curves) and thoracic and sacral kyphosis (outward curves). This design allows for greater flexibility and resilience while supporting the body's weight and movements.

8. What's the difference between tendons and ligaments?

Tendons and ligaments are both types of connective tissue, but they serve different purposes. Tendons connect muscles to bones, allowing muscles to move bones when they contract. Ligaments, on the other hand, connect bones to other bones, providing stability to joints and limiting excessive movement. Tendons are typically more elastic and can stretch more than ligaments.

9. How do ribs protect vital organs while still allowing breathing?

Ribs protect vital organs like the heart and lungs while allowing breathing through their unique structure and attachment. They form a cage-like structure around the chest cavity, shielding organs from impact. Their curved shape and flexible cartilage connections to the sternum allow the ribcage to expand and contract during breathing, accommodating lung movement.

10. How do bones contribute to our immune system?

Bones contribute to our immune system primarily through the bone marrow. Red bone marrow, found in certain bones, is the site of hematopoiesis - the production of blood cells, including white blood cells crucial for immune function. Additionally, bones produce a hormone called osteocalcin, which helps regulate glucose metabolism and energy expenditure, indirectly supporting immune function.

11. How do bones grow and change throughout our lifetime?

Bones grow and change through a process called bone remodeling. This involves two main cell types: osteoblasts, which build new bone tissue, and osteoclasts, which break down old bone tissue. This process continues throughout our lives, allowing bones to adapt to changes in physical activity, heal from injuries, and maintain overall bone health.

12. Why are children's bones more flexible than adults'?

Children's bones are more flexible than adults' because they contain a higher proportion of cartilage and have a lower mineral content. This flexibility helps protect against fractures from falls and impacts. As children grow, their bones undergo ossification, where cartilage is gradually replaced by harder, more mineralized bone tissue, leading to increased strength but reduced flexibility in adulthood.

13. Why do some bones, like the skull, fuse during development while others don't?

Some bones, like those in the skull, fuse during development to provide better protection for vital organs (in this case, the brain). Skull fusion creates a strong, rigid structure that shields the brain from impact. Other bones, like those in the limbs, remain separate to allow for movement and growth. The timing and extent of bone fusion are genetically programmed and influenced by hormones and mechanical stresses during development.

14. How do bones adapt to different levels of physical activity?

Bones adapt to different levels of physical activity through a process called bone remodeling. When bones experience increased mechanical stress from exercise, osteoblasts (bone-building cells) become more active, leading to increased bone density and strength. Conversely, lack of physical activity or weightlessness (as in space) can lead to bone loss. This adaptive process, known as Wolff's Law, ensures that bones maintain optimal strength relative to the mechanical demands placed on them.

15. What's the difference between red and yellow bone marrow?

Red bone marrow and yellow bone marrow serve different functions. Red bone marrow is primarily responsible for hematopoiesis - the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It's found in the spongy interior of certain bones, like the hip bones, ribs, and vertebrae. Yellow bone marrow consists mainly of fat cells and is found in the hollow interior of long bones. It can convert back to red marrow if needed, such as during severe blood loss.

16. How do bones heal after a fracture?

Bone healing after a fracture occurs in several stages. First, a blood clot forms around the fracture site. Then, a soft callus of cartilage develops, which is gradually replaced by a hard callus of new bone tissue. Finally, the bone undergoes remodeling, where excess bone is removed and the healed area is reshaped to its original form. This process can take weeks to months, depending on the fracture's severity and location.

17. How does osteoporosis affect bone structure and strength?

Osteoporosis affects bone structure and strength by causing a decrease in bone density and quality. In this condition, the rate of bone breakdown exceeds the rate of bone formation, leading to porous, fragile bones. The trabecular (spongy) bone becomes thinner and more widely spaced, while the cortical (compact) bone becomes thinner and more porous. This results in bones that are weaker and more susceptible to fractures.

18. Why are some bones more prone to fractures than others?

Some bones are more prone to fractures due to factors like their location, shape, and function. Bones that bear more weight or are subjected to frequent impact, like the hip or wrist bones, are at higher risk. Long bones with thinner areas, such as the neck of the femur, are also vulnerable. Additionally, bones with less surrounding muscle or fat for protection, like those in the fingers or toes, are more susceptible to fractures from direct impacts.

19. What role do bones play in detoxification?

Bones play a role in detoxification by sequestering certain heavy metals and other toxins. The mineral component of bones, particularly hydroxyapatite, can bind to toxic metals like lead, removing them from circulation and storing them in a relatively inert form. However, this can also be problematic, as these stored toxins can be released back into the bloodstream during periods of bone loss, such as in osteoporosis or pregnancy.

20. What's the significance of the fontanelles in a baby's skull?

Fontanelles, the soft spots on a baby's skull, serve several important purposes. They allow the skull to compress slightly during birth, facilitating passage through the birth canal. After birth, they provide space for the rapidly growing brain. Fontanelles also allow for assessment of hydration and intracranial pressure in infants. As the baby grows, these gaps gradually close and ossify, forming a fully protective skull by around 18-24 months of age.

21. Why do we have 206 bones instead of one large bone?

We have 206 bones instead of one large bone for several reasons: flexibility, protection of organs, blood cell production, and mineral storage. Multiple bones allow for a wide range of movement, protect delicate internal organs, provide sites for blood cell formation in bone marrow, and act as a reservoir for essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

22. What role do bones play in the body's calcium balance?

Bones act as a calcium reservoir for the body, storing about 99% of the body's calcium. When blood calcium levels drop, bones release calcium into the bloodstream. Conversely, when levels are high, excess calcium is stored in bones. This process, regulated by hormones like parathyroid hormone and calcitonin, helps maintain stable blood calcium levels crucial for various bodily functions.

23. How do the skull bones protect the brain?

The skull bones protect the brain through their structure and composition. The cranium, formed by eight bones fused together, creates a rigid, enclosed space for the brain. The bones' hard, dense nature resists impact, while their curved shape helps distribute force. Inside, the meninges and cerebrospinal fluid provide additional cushioning.

24. What's the purpose of the tiny bones in the ear?

The three tiny bones in the middle ear - the malleus, incus, and stapes (also known as hammer, anvil, and stirrup) - amplify and transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. Their small size and arrangement allow for efficient transfer of sound energy, enabling us to hear a wide range of frequencies and volumes.

25. How do joints allow for movement between bones?

Joints allow for movement between bones by providing a point of articulation. Different types of joints, such as ball-and-socket, hinge, and pivot joints, allow for various ranges of motion. Cartilage at joint surfaces reduces friction, while ligaments and tendons provide stability and connect muscles to bones, enabling controlled movement.

26. How do the bones in our hands allow for such precise movements?

The bones in our hands allow for precise movements through their intricate structure and arrangement. The 27 bones in each hand, including the carpals (wrist bones), metacarpals, and phalanges, are connected by numerous joints. This complex network, combined with a multitude of small muscles and tendons, allows for a wide range of motions. The opposable thumb, with its saddle joint at the base, is particularly crucial for fine motor skills and grip strength.

27. Why do we have floating ribs, and what purpose do they serve?

Floating ribs are the last two pairs of ribs (11th and 12th) that don't connect directly to the sternum or to other ribs. They serve several purposes: they provide some protection for lower internal organs while allowing for greater expansion of the lower ribcage during breathing. Their "floating" nature also allows for more flexibility in the lower torso, which is beneficial for various movements and for accommodating abdominal expansion, such as during pregnancy or after eating.

28. What's the purpose of the hole in the hip bone (acetabulum)?

The hole in the hip bone, called the acetabulum, serves as the socket for the ball-and-socket hip joint. It's a deep, cup-shaped cavity that accommodates the head of the femur (thighbone). This structure allows for a wide range of motion in the hip while providing stability. The acetabulum's shape and the surrounding ligaments and muscles help distribute body weight and forces during movement.

29. How do bones contribute to our voice production?

Bones contribute to voice production in several ways. The hyoid bone, though not directly connected to other bones, provides attachment points for muscles involved in swallowing and speech. The hard palate, formed by the maxilla and palatine bones, helps shape the oral cavity for speech sounds. The skull bones also act as resonating chambers, influencing the timbre of the voice. Additionally, the larynx is partially supported by cartilage that can calcify with age, affecting voice quality.

30. Why do we have more bones at birth than as adults?

We have more bones at birth (around 300) than as adults (206) because many bones fuse during growth and development. For example, the skull starts as several separate bones that fuse to better protect the brain. Similarly, the sacrum and coccyx each begin as several separate vertebrae that fuse into single structures. This process of bone fusion allows for initial flexibility and growth, followed by increased strength and stability in adulthood.

31. Why do some animals have bones that humans don't, and vice versa?

Differences in bone structures between animals and humans are the result of evolutionary adaptations to different environments and lifestyles. For example, birds have hollow bones to reduce weight for flight, while humans have denser bones for upright walking. Some animals have extra bones for specialized functions, like the os penis in many mammals for mating. Humans have lost some bones, like the tail vertebrae, which are vestigial. These differences reflect the diverse evolutionary pressures faced by different species.

32. What's the relationship between bone density and overall health?

Bone density is closely related to overall health. Higher bone density is associated with reduced risk of fractures, better mobility, and improved overall physical function. It's also linked to better cardiovascular health and reduced risk of certain cancers. Conversely, low bone density (osteopenia or osteoporosis) can indicate nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or other health issues. Factors affecting bone density, such as diet, exercise, and hormone levels, often impact other aspects of health as well.

33. What's the purpose of the small bones (sesamoids) embedded in tendons?

Sesamoid bones, small bones embedded in tendons, serve several purposes. They help reduce friction and protect tendons from wear and tear, acting like pulleys to change the direction of tendon pull. This improves the mechanical efficiency of certain joints. The most well-known sesamoid is the patella (kneecap), which increases the leverage of the quadriceps muscle. Sesamoids also help distribute weight and pressure across joints, reducing stress on surrounding tissues.

34. How do bones contribute to our sense of balance?

Bones contribute to our sense of balance primarily through the vestibular system in the inner ear. The temporal bones of the skull house the semicircular canals and otolith organs, which detect head movement and position relative to gravity. Additionally, proprioceptors in joints and muscles provide information about body position. The skeletal system as a whole also contributes to balance by providing a stable framework for the body and allowing for postural adjustments.

35. How do bones interact with the nervous system?

Bones interact with the nervous system in several ways. They contain numerous nerve endings that provide sensory information about pressure, pain, and position. The vertebrae of the spine protect the spinal cord, a crucial part of the central nervous system. Bones also have a rich blood supply controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which regulates bone metabolism. Additionally, the skull protects the brain and provides passages for cranial nerves.

36. How do bones store and release energy during movement?

Bones store and release energy during movement through their elastic properties. When a force is applied, bones slightly deform, storing potential energy. As the force is removed, they return to their original shape, releasing this energy. This property, combined with the spring-like action of tendons and ligaments, helps conserve energy during repetitive movements like walking or running, making locomotion more efficient.

37. How do bones contribute to hormone production and regulation?

Bones contribute to hormone production and regulation in several ways. They produce osteocalcin, which helps regulate glucose metabolism and male fertility. Bones also secrete fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), which regulates phosphate and vitamin D metabolism. Additionally, bone cells respond to various hormones like parathyroid hormone and calcitonin, playing a crucial role in calcium homeostasis and overall endocrine function.

38. How do bones aid in temperature regulation?

Bones aid in temperature regulation primarily through the bone marrow. The extensive blood supply to bones and bone marrow helps distribute heat throughout the body. Additionally, bones can act as a heat sink, absorbing excess heat from the blood and releasing it slowly. In extreme cold, the body can reduce blood flow to the bones in the limbs to conserve heat for vital organs, a process known as peripheral vasoconstriction.

39. What's the purpose of the tiny holes (foramina) in bones?

The tiny holes, or foramina, in bones serve as passageways for blood vessels, nerves, and other structures. For example, the foramen magnum at the base of the skull allows the spinal cord to connect to the brain. Nutrient foramina in long bones allow blood vessels to enter and nourish the bone tissue. In the skull, various foramina provide routes for cranial nerves and blood vessels. These openings are crucial for maintaining the bone's blood supply and nervous innervation.

40. How do bones contribute to our body's pH balance?

Bones contribute to the body's pH balance by acting as a buffer against changes in blood acidity. When blood becomes too acidic, bones release alkaline minerals like calcium and magnesium to neutralize the acid. Conversely, if blood becomes too alkaline, bones can absorb these minerals. This process, part of the body's acid-base homeostasis, helps maintain blood pH within a narrow, life-sustaining range. However, chronic acidosis can lead to bone demineralization over time.

41. How do bones aid in mineral homeostasis beyond just calcium?

While bones are well-known for their role in calcium homeostasis, they also play a crucial role in regulating other minerals. Bones store about 85% of the body's phosphorus, releasing it as needed for various cellular processes. They also contain significant amounts of magnesium, sodium, and other trace minerals. The process of bone remodeling helps maintain the balance of these minerals in the blood. Additionally, bones produce hormones that influence mineral metabolism throughout the body.

42. How do bones change with age, and why?

Bones undergo several changes with age. In childhood and adolescence, bones grow in length and density. Peak bone mass is typically reached in the late 20s or early 30s. After this, bone density gradually decreases, especially in women after menopause. The rate of bone formation slows, while bone resorption continues, leading to more porous, fragile bones. These changes are influenced by factors like declining hormone levels, reduced physical activity, and changes in calcium absorption and vitamin D production.