Surface Markings Terms
The Skeletal System
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
Fossa
Condyle
Head
Facet
Depressions and Openings
an opening through which blood vessels,
Example: Hole at the base of the Skull
nerves, or ligaments pass
a tubelike passageway running within a
Example: Within the ear
bone
a depression in or on a bone
Example: Temporal Fossa
Processes that form Joints
a large, rounded articular prominence
Example: Superior end of Tibia
a rounded articular projection supported
Example: Head of the Humerus
on the constricted portion (neck) of a bone
a smooth, flat surface
Example: In between vertebrae
Processes to which tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues attach
a large, rounded, usually roughened
Example: Ischium (part of the Hip)
process
Tuberosity
Spinous
process
Trochanter
Crest
a sharp, slender projection
Example: Tail on the Vertebrae
a large, blunt projection found only on the
femur
Example: Head of the Femur
a prominent border or ridge
Example: Hip Bone (iliac Crest)