Support and Shape

• The skeleton is a support structure, providing shape to the body. It also acts as the protective framework that is needed to keep the body organs safe.
  
  

Protection

• The bones of the skeleton protect the delicate internal organs and the soft tissue of the body, keeping the inner body safe from trauma due to falls or injuries.
  
  

Movement

• The bones are connected to skeletal muscles that permit the body to move. Bones act as levers and when the muscles contract they pull on a bone and allow it to move.
  
  

Blood Cell Production

• Hemopoiesis, or blood cell formation, takes place in the red bone marrow. Blood cells are essential to life and play a huge role in keeping the body healthy as well.
  
  

Mineral Storage

• Skeletal bones are able to store phosphorous and calcium, which may then be released in the necessary amount, to keep the body at a level of homeostasis, or a state of balance.