CRANIAL INDEX Meaning and
Definition
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The cranial index is a quantitative measurement used in the field of anthropometry to assess the degree of skull elongation or roundness in relation to overall cranial shape. It is calculated by dividing the maximum width of the skull by the maximum length, and multiplying the result by 100 to express it as a percentage. This index provides useful information when studying human or animal skulls, as it helps categorize individuals into different head shape classifications.
A cranial index value of 75 or lower indicates a dolichocephalic or elongated skull, while values between 75 and 80 suggest a mesocephalic or intermediate skull shape. A value of 80 or higher indicates a brachycephalic or round skull. This index is often used in anthropological and forensic studies to evaluate population differences in cranial morphology, as well as understanding the evolution and migration patterns of various human populations.
The cranial index is an essential tool in studying cranial variation among different populations. It helps researchers in fields such as anthropology, archaeology, biology, and medicine to understand the diversity of human skulls and their implications in terms of genetics, race, evolution, and health. By quantifying the cranial shape through this index, scientists can compare and contrast different populations, draw conclusions about migration patterns, and gain insights into various historical, social, and environmental factors that have influenced human skull variation throughout time.
Common Misspellings for CRANIAL INDEX
- xranial index
- vranial index
- franial index
- dranial index
- ceanial index
- cdanial index
- cfanial index
- ctanial index
- c5anial index
- c4anial index
- crznial index
- crsnial index
- crwnial index
- crqnial index
- crabial index
- cramial index
- crajial index
- crahial index
- cranual index
Etymology of CRANIAL INDEX
The etymology of the term "cranial index" can be broken down as follows:
1. Cranial: The word "cranial" originates from the Latin word "cranium", which means "skull". It pertains to anything relating to or associated with the cranium, which is the skeletal structure that forms and protects the brain and sensory organs. The Latin word "cranium" itself was derived from the Greek word "kranion".
2. Index: The term "index" comes from the Latin word "index", which means "pointer" or "indicator". In this context, it refers to a measurement or ratio used to indicate and compare certain characteristics or proportions of the skull.
Therefore, the combining of "cranial" and "index" forms the term "cranial index", which specifically refers to the measurement or ratio utilized to evaluate and compare the proportions and characteristics of skulls.
Similar spelling words for CRANIAL INDEX
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