The sternum is divided into how many parts?

The sternum, or breastbone, is a flat bone located in the front of the chest. It is composed of three distinct parts: the manubrium, the body (also known as the gladiolus), and the xiphoid process.

The manubrium is the broad, upper section of the sternum, which articulates with the clavicles (collarbones) and the first pair of ribs. Below it lies the body of the sternum, which is the longest section and serves as the attachment point for the remaining ribs through costal cartilage. Finally, the xiphoid process is the small, cartilaginous structure at the lower end of the sternum that can vary in shape and size.

Understanding the structure of the sternum is important in anatomy, particularly in the context of chest injuries, surgical procedures, and the examination of chest X-rays, as it plays a crucial role in protecting vital organs and providing attachment points for ribs and muscles.