A skull is the bony framework of the head in vertebrates. It protects the brain and important sense organs.
The Skull's Structure and Function
The skull is primarily composed of bone (or cartilage in some animals), forming a protective casing around the brain. It's a complex structure with several key components:
- Cranium: This is the braincase, the main protective structure for the brain.
- Facial Bones: These bones form the structure of the face, including the upper jaw (maxilla), nasal bones, and eye sockets. Importantly, only the upper jaw is considered part of the skull. The lower jaw (mandible) is a separate bone.
- Jaw: While the lower jaw is not technically part of the skull, it articulates with the skull, allowing for chewing and other functions.
The skull's primary function is to safeguard the delicate brain from injury. It also provides structural support for the face and acts as an attachment point for facial muscles. Further, the skull houses and protects vital sense organs such as the eyes and ears.
Key Features of the Skull
- Protection: The skull provides robust protection against impacts and trauma.
- Support: It supports the soft tissues of the face and provides an anchoring point for muscles involved in chewing, speaking, and facial expression.
- Sensory Protection: It encloses and protects the delicate organs responsible for sight, hearing, smell, and balance.
Example: Human Skull
The human skull is a good example of this structure, with 22 bones forming the cranium and 14 bones making up the facial skeleton.
