Question

Define true ribs, false ribs and floating ribs.

Answer 1

(a) True ribs - The first seven pairs of ribs are called true ribs. They are dorsally attached to the thoracic vertebrae and are ventrally connected to the sternum with help of the hyaline cartilage.

(b) False ribs - The three pairs of ribs i.e., 8th, 9th and 10th do not directly articulate with the sternum rather it joins the cartilage of 7th pair of ribs and hence are called false ribs.

(c) Floating ribs - The 11th and 12th pair of ribs are called floating ribs because one end of the rib is attached to the vertebral column and the other end is free. They function as the protection of kidneys.