What jobs does bones have?

Structural Support

Bones provide structural support to the body, giving it shape and allowing it to stand upright. They act as a framework for muscles and soft tissues, protecting vital organs and providing stability during movement.

Protection

Bones form a protective barrier around vital organs, such as the brain, heart, and lungs. The skull safeguards the brain, the ribcage encases the heart and lungs, and the spine shields the spinal cord.

Storage

Bones serve as reservoirs for minerals, mainly calcium and phosphorus. They store and release these minerals as needed to maintain the body's mineral balance and support various physiological processes.

Blood Cell Production

The bone marrow, a soft tissue found inside bones, is responsible for producing red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). These cells play vital roles in oxygen transport, immune function, and blood clotting, respectively.

Support for Muscle Attachment

Bones provide attachment points for muscles through tendons. Muscles contract and pull on these attachment points, allowing for movement and locomotion.

Endocrine Regulation

Certain bone cells, called osteoblasts and osteocytes, produce hormones that regulate calcium metabolism and bone growth. These hormones include osteocalcin and parathyroid hormone (PTH), which help to maintain bone strength and mineral balance.

Acid-Base Balance

Bones contribute to the regulation of the body's acid-base balance by releasing or absorbing calcium and phosphate ions. This helps to maintain the pH level of body fluids within a narrow range.