What types of bones do you know and what is the significance of this variety?

Flat bones protect the internal organs. The function of flat bones is to protect internal organs such as the brain, heart, and pelvic organs. Flat bones are somewhat flattened and can provide protection like a shield; flat bones can also provide large muscle attachment areas.

Long bone support and ease of movement. Long bones are mainly located in the appendicular skeleton and include bones in the lower extremities (tibia, fibula, femur, metatarsals, and phalanges) and bones in the upper extremities (humerus, elbow, metacarpus and phalanges).

The short bones are cubic in shape. Located at the wrist and ankles, the short bones provide stability and some movement.

Irregular bones have complex shapes. Irregular bones vary in shape and structure and therefore do not fit into any other category. They are often quite complex in shape to help protect the internal organs. For example, the vertebrae, the irregular bones of the spine, protect the spinal cord.

Sesamoid bones strengthen tendons. These small, round bones are commonly found in the tendons of the arms, knees, and legs. The patella, commonly called the patella, is an example of the sesamoid bone.