Humans have 12 pairs of ribs, making a total of 24 ribs. Out of these, the first 7 pairs are known as ‘true ribs.’ These true ribs are directly attached to the sternum (breastbone) by costal cartilage. The remaining 5 pairs are called ‘false ribs,’ with the last 2 pairs being ‘floating ribs’ that are not attached to the sternum at all. The true ribs play a crucial role in protecting vital organs like the heart and lungs.
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