Ball and socket joint - Worksheet

The ball and socket joint is a type of joint in the human body that allows for a wide range of movement in many directions. This joint works by fitting a spherical end of one bone (the ball) into a cup-like depression of another bone (the socket), much like how a ball fits into a socket. This design enables the joint to rotate freely and move in multiple axes, providing flexibility and mobility. This type of joint can be found in areas such as the shoulder and the hip, where movement is necessary in various planes for daily activities such as lifting, throwing, and walking.

Humans have skeletons and muscles to provide structure, protection for internal organs, and the ability to move. The skeleton serves as a framework that supports the body's weight and maintains its shape, while muscles are attached to the bones and contract to produce movement. Joints are the points at which two bones meet and allow for motion. They work by connecting bones and providing a mechanism for movement, supported by muscles and tendons. There are various types of joints in the human body, each designed to provide different ranges and types of movement, from the highly mobile ball and socket joints to the more restricted hinge joints found in the fingers and knees.