The chest, also known as the thoracic cage, is composed of the following bones:

• Sternum (Breastbone):

  A flat bone located in the center of the chest. It consists of three parts:

  • Manubrium: The upper part of the sternum.
  • Body: The middle and largest part of the sternum.
  • Xiphoid Process: The small, cartilaginous lower part of the sternum.
• Ribs:

  There are 12 pairs of ribs that form the main structure of the thoracic cage.

  • True Ribs (1-7): These ribs are directly connected to the sternum through their costal cartilage.
  • False Ribs (8-10): These ribs connect to the sternum indirectly, via the costal cartilage of the rib above.
  • Floating Ribs (11-12): These ribs do not connect to the sternum at all.
• Costal Cartilages:

  These cartilages connect the ribs to the sternum, allowing for flexibility during breathing.

• Thoracic Vertebrae:

  These vertebrae form the posterior part of the thoracic cage.

Collectively, these bones protect vital organs such as the heart and lungs.