<P> Humans have 24 ribs ( 12 pairs ) . The first seven sets of ribs , known as `` true ribs '' ( costae verae ) also known as vertebrosternal ribs , are directly attached to the sternum through the costal cartilage . Rib 1 is unique and harder to distinguish than other ribs . It is a short , flat , C - shaped bone . The vertebral attachment can be found just below the neck and the majority of this bone can be found above the level of the clavicle . Ribs 2 through 7 have a more traditional appearance and become longer and less curved as they progress downwards . The following five sets are known as `` false ribs '' ( costae spuriae ) , three of these sharing a common cartilaginous connection to the sternum , while the last two ( eleventh and twelfth ribs ) are termed floating ribs ( costae fluctuantes ) or vertebral ribs . They are attached to the vertebrae only , and not to the sternum or cartilage coming off of the sternum . Some people lack one of the two pairs of floating ribs , while others have a third pair . </P>
<P> Humans have 24 ribs ( 12 pairs ) . The first seven sets of ribs , known as `` true ribs '' ( costae verae ) also known as vertebrosternal ribs , are directly attached to the sternum through the costal cartilage . Rib 1 is unique and harder to distinguish than other ribs . It is a short , flat , C - shaped bone . The vertebral attachment can be found just below the neck and the majority of this bone can be found above the level of the clavicle . Ribs 2 through 7 have a more traditional appearance and become longer and less curved as they progress downwards . The following five sets are known as `` false ribs '' ( costae spuriae ) , three of these sharing a common cartilaginous connection to the sternum , while the last two ( eleventh and twelfth ribs ) are termed floating ribs ( costae fluctuantes ) or vertebral ribs . They are attached to the vertebrae only , and not to the sternum or cartilage coming off of the sternum . Some people lack one of the two pairs of floating ribs , while others have a third pair . </P>
a rib that attaches to the sternum by the cartilage of rib 7
a rib that attaches to the sternum by the cartilage of rib 7
true ribs
true ribs