Chapter 7, Problem 6IA

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The age group and the gender of the individuals found by the archeologists in Ethiopia. The examination of the bones suggested that the remains represented four types of individuals. Two of the skeletons had bone densities that are less than those of the other two skeletons.

The skeletons with the lower bone mass also had broader pelvic bones. Within the two groups defined by the bone mass, smaller skeletons had bones with evidence of epiphyseal plates. On the other hand, larger bones had only a thin line where the epiphyseal plates should be.

Introduction:

Epiphyseal plate is a group of the cartilage present between the secondary and primary ossification centers. The epiphyseal plate is responsible for the growth of the length of a bone. Pelvic bone provides the support to the vertebral column and protects the visceral organs. The primary function of the hip bone is to provide the movement to the lower limbs.