The spelling of the word "rib cages" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The initial sound is /r/, followed by the vowel sound /ɪ/, which is pronounced similar to the short "i" sound in "sit." The next sound is a voiced consonant, /b/, followed by the long vowel sound /eɪ/, pronounced like the "ay" in "day." The final two sounds are the voiceless consonants /k/ and /s/. Altogether, the IPA transcription for "rib cages" is /rɪbˈkeɪdʒɪz/.
Rib cage refers to the bony structure that surrounds and protects the vital organs of the thoracic cavity in vertebrates, particularly in mammals. It is composed of several pairs of curved, flat bones called ribs that are joined to the sternum (breastbone) in the front and the vertebral column in the back, creating a semi-rigid enclosure.
The main function of the rib cage is to provide support and protection to the thoracic organs, such as the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels. Additionally, it aids in the process of respiration by facilitating the expansion and contraction of the chest cavity during breathing. The ribs, along with the intercostal muscles in between them, play a crucial role in this mechanism.
Typically, human rib cages consist of 12 pairs of ribs that are attached to the sternum through cartilage known as the costal cartilages. The upper 7 pairs, known as true ribs or vertebrosternal ribs, are directly connected to the sternum via their own costal cartilages. The next 3 pairs, named false ribs or vertebrochondral ribs, connect indirectly to the sternum through the cartilage of the rib above. The last 2 pairs of ribs, called floating ribs or vertebral ribs, lack a connection to the sternum.
Overall, the rib cage provides structural integrity to the thoracic region, shielding the vital organs from potential trauma while allowing the flexibility required for respiratory movements.
The word "rib cage" is derived from the Old English word "ribb", which originally meant "a rib". The word "cage" comes from the Old North French word "cage" or "cagee", which meant "enclosure" or "a framework of bars or wires". Combining these two words, "rib cage" refers to the bony structure formed by the ribs enclosing and protecting the thoracic organs, such as the heart and lungs.