1.Why are there sutures on the human skull? What does this tell you about the actual structure of the skull?

http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/mag/artnov07macro/structure_of_the_human_skull/

http://www.daviddarling.info/encyclopedia/S/skull.html

Why are there sutures I the human skull?

The sutures on the human skull serve an important purpose. They are fibrous joints that connect the different bones of the skull together. These sutures allow for flexibility during birth, and they also serve as growth plates for the skull bones as the brain continues to develop in childhood.

The presence of sutures informs us about the actual structure of the skull. Unlike many other bones in our body, which are rigidly fused together, the skull is made up of multiple bones that are joined by these flexible sutures. This design allows for some degree of movement and expansion, facilitating the growth and development of the brain. By remaining somewhat mobile, the skull can accommodate the rapid growth of the brain in early childhood.

The sutures also indicate that the human skull is a dynamic structure that changes over time. As a child grows, the sutures between the skull bones gradually close, fusing the bones together. This process, known as cranial ossification, strengthens the skull and provides more protection for the brain. The pattern and timing of suture closure can be studied to evaluate the development and potential abnormalities of the skull and brain.

Understanding the purpose and structure of sutures helps us appreciate the complexity and adaptability of the human skull as it provides a protective enclosure for our brains while also allowing space for growth and development.