Human bones are the hard structures that make up our skeleton, providing support and shape to our bodies. There are 206 bones in an adult human, each serving a specific purpose. For example, the femur is the longest bone, while the stapes in the ear is the smallest. Bones also protect vital organs, like the skull safeguarding the brain. In addition to support and protection, bones play a crucial role in movement. They work with muscles and joints to allow us to walk, run, and perform various activities. Bones also store essential minerals, such as calcium, and produce blood cells in the bone marrow.