The adult human body contains 206 bones, which form the framework of the skeletal system.

These bones serve several critical functions, including providing structure and support, protecting vital organs, and enabling movement through their connections with muscles.

The number of bones in the body decreases from birth, where a baby has approximately 270 bones, as some of these bones gradually fuse together during growth and development.

The skeletal system is divided into two main parts: the axial skeleton, which includes the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, and the appendicular skeleton, which comprises the limbs and girdles.