GROSS ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -It provides cushioning for the vertebrae and reduce the stress caused by impact. They act shock absorber for the spine. They help protect the nerves that run down the spine and between the vertebrae.

Detailed explanation-2: -Therefore, the correct answer to this question, and the option which is not a primary function of the vertebral column in humans, is (C), protecting the heart and the lungs.

Detailed explanation-3: -An intervertebral disk acts as a shock absorber between each of the vertebrae in the spinal column by keeping the vertebrae separated when there is an impact from an activity. They also serve to protect the nerves that run down the middle of the spine and intervertebral disks.

Detailed explanation-4: -They adhere to both the vertebral end-plates and the bony vertebral rim. The attachment to the vertebral bodies is via ring apophyses. Intervertebral discs are wedge-like, being particularly thick anteriorly. Each intervertebral disc is composed of a nucleus pulposus and an anulus fibrosus.