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Answer: The clavicle is called the beauty bone because its visible outline enhances the aesthetic appeal of the upper body. Prominent collarbones are often associated with elegance, slenderness, and grace, especially in fashion and art, contributing to its nickname.
Explanation:
Bones are rigid, specialized connective tissues that form the internal framework of the human body, known as the endoskeleton. They provide structural support, protect vital organs, facilitate movement by serving as attachment sites for muscles, and also play a crucial role in mineral storage and blood cell formation. The human skeleton is made up of 206 bones, divided into two main parts: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton.
The axial skeleton consists of 80 bones, including the skull, vertebral column, ribs, and sternum. It forms the central axis of the body and supports and protects the organs of the head, neck, and trunk. The appendicular skeleton comprises 126 bones and includes the bones of the limbs and the girdles (pectoral and pelvic) that attach them to the axial skeleton. Together, the skeleton enables movement and maintains posture.
The human skeletal system also includes cartilages, which are soft, flexible connective tissues found in areas such as the nose, ears, joints, and rib cage. Bones are connected to each other by ligaments, while muscles are attached to bones through tendons. The skeletal system is dynamic and constantly remodels itself, especially in response to stress, exercise, and nutrition.
Among the bones of the appendicular skeleton, the clavicle, commonly known as the collarbone, plays an important role. It is a long, curved bone located in the pectoral girdle, connecting the upper limb to the axial skeleton. Each clavicle lies horizontally across the front of the thorax, articulating medially with the sternum and laterally with the scapula (shoulder blade). It is one of the first bones to ossify during fetal development.
The clavicle functions as a strut that holds the scapula and, consequently, the shoulder joint away from the thorax, allowing for greater range of motion in the upper limb. It transmits mechanical forces from the upper limb to the axial skeleton and helps stabilize the shoulder. In addition, it protects important blood vessels and nerves that pass beneath it.
The clavicle is often referred to as the ‘beauty bone’ because of its visible outline just beneath the skin in some individuals, especially those with a lean body. In many cultures and fashion trends, prominent collarbones are considered attractive, hence the nickname. However, it is also one of the most commonly fractured bones in the body due to its subcutaneous position and role in absorbing impacts from falls or collisions.
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