Human Body: Joints

What is a ball and socket joint and what is an example of a ball and socket joint in your body?

A ball and socket joint can move in just about any direction. It allows for the greatest amount of movement. Examples of ball and socket joints in your body are the shoulders and hips.

What is a gliding joint and what is an example of a gliding joint in your body?

A gliding joint can move in two directions-up and down and side to side. Examples of these joints are wrists, ankles, and while opening the fingers and toes.

What is a hinge joint and what is an example of a hinge joint in your body?

A hinge joint can move only in one direction. Examples of hinge joints in your body are knees, elbows, and the outer joints of your fingers and toes.

What is the purpose of a joint?

A joint is the place where two bones meet. It allows movement of that area of the body.

What is an opposable thumb?

An opposable thumb is one that is opposite of the other fingers.

What does articulated mean?

Articulated means "jointed."

Why is it good that humans have articulated hands?

Humans have articulated hands, which allows us to complete intricate, every day tasks with ease.

What are the three different kinds of joints we discussed in class?

The three joints we studied are Hinge joints, Ball and Socket joints, and Gliding joints.

How are fingers and thumbs alike? How are they different?

Fingers and thumbs are alike because they are both part of an articulated hand with moving joints. The thumb is different from the fingers because it is opposable and positioned opposite from your other fingers.