What is rib cage?

The rib cage surrounds the lungs and the heart, serving as an important means of bony protection for these vital organs.In total, the rib cage consists of the 12 thoracic vertebrae and the 24 ribs, in addition to the sternum. ... The motion is limited by the ligamentous attachments between ribs and vertebrae.

 The rib cage help protects the organs in the chest, such as the heart and lungs, from damage.

Parts of Rib

 The parts of a rib include the head, neck, body (or shaft), tubercle, and angle. The head of the rib lies next to a vertebra. The ribs connect to the vertebrae with two costovertebral joints, one on the head and one on the neck.

Bones

  There are 12 pairs of ribs that total 24 ribs, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and a single flat sternum. Therefore, this thoracic cage is formed of 37 bones. These bones are attached to each other by cartilages.

Function 

There are several functions of your ribs. 

These functions include:

Protecting your thoracic contents

Aiding in normal breathing and respiration

Provide a place for muscles and tendons to attach.

Protection of the thoracic contents is most important. Organs in your thorax include your lungs, heart, trachea, esophagus, and diaphragm as well as many muscles, nerves, and vascular structures. The ribs provide a bony cavity that wraps around your body, keeping your organs safe and sound within your body.