Question

Ribs 11 and 12 are called ribs because they have no connection to the sternum.

• A. intercostal
• B. true
• C. false
• D. floating

Answer 1

The correct option is D floating

The first rib attaches to the sternum anteriorly and to the T1 vertebra posteriorly. The next few ribs articulates similarly until we reach the eight rib. The eighth, ninth, and tenth rib articulate with the costal cartilages of the ribs above them instead of the sternum. The eleventh and twelfth don’t have any articulations anteriorly and are free. Their only attachment is posteriorly, to the eleventh and twelfth thoracic vertebrae. As these ribs aren't fixed anteriorly, they seem to float and are called floating ribs.