by 
The Curious Bag
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The human skeleton is made up of 206 bones. Together, they comprise the skeletal system, which has five major functions: structure, movement, protection of organs, production of red blood cells and mineral storage.
Structure
Perhaps the most obvious function of the skeletal system is to provide structure and organization to the body, much like the beams and framework of a building. Muscles and other soft tissues surround the bones to give the body its basic shape.
Movement
The skeleton, in conjunction with the muscular system, allows the body to move. Muscles are attached to the bones by tendons, while bones are connected to each other by ligaments. As muscles are contracted and relaxed, they pull the bones in various directions, providing movement.
Protection of Organs
The bones in the skeleton encase the vital organs of the body, protecting them from outside impact. For example, the cranium (skull) protects the brain, and the ribcage protects the lungs.
Red Blood Cell Production
Some bones in the body contain a cavity filled with bone marrow, which produces new red blood cells and repairs damaged ones.
Mineral Storage
Minerals like calcium and phosphorus are stored in the bones. These minerals are vital for a body to function optimally. As mineral levels in the blood decrease, they are released from the bones and used by the body.
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