The Skeletal System
Surface Markings
The surfaces of bones have various structural features adapted to specific functions. These
features are called surface markings. Long bones that bear a great deal of weight have large,
rounded ends that can form sturdy joints, for example. Other bones have depressions that
receive the rounded ends.
Foramen
Meatus
Depressions and Openings
an opening through which blood vessels,
nerves, or ligaments pass
a tubelike passageway running within a bone
Example: Hole at the base of the
Skull
Example: Within the ear
Paranasal sinus
an air-filled cavity within a bone connected to
the nasal cavity
Fossa
a depression in or on a bone
Example: Temporal Fossa
Condyle
Processes that form Joints
a large, rounded articular prominence
Example: Superior end of Tibia
Head
a rounded articular projection supported on the
constricted portion (neck) of a bone
Example: Head of the Humerus
Facet
a smooth, flat surface
Example: In between vertebrae
Tuberosity
Processes to which tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues attach
a large, rounded, usually roughened process
Example: Ischium (part of the Hip)
Spinous process
a sharp, slender projection
Example: Tail on the Vertebrae
Trochanter
a large, blunt projection found only on the
femur
Example: Head of the Femur
Crest
a prominent border or ridge
Example: Hip Bone (iliac Crest)