Galen Integrated Human Science Exam 1 Practice

The function of the skeletal system primarily includes providing support and structure to the body, which is rightly identified as the correct answer. The skeletal system comprises bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, all of which work together to maintain the body's shape and stability. The rigid framework of bones supports the weight of the body and allows for movement in conjunction with muscles.

While the skeletal system does have other functions, such as housing bone marrow responsible for blood cell production, the option that states it creates blood cells exclusively does not encapsulate the breadth of the skeletal system's roles and is thus not the primary function. Similarly, the production of hormones is mostly related to the endocrine system, not the skeletal system. Lastly, facilitating breathing is primarily a function of the respiratory system, although the skeletal system does play a supportive role in protecting the chest cavity where the lungs are located. However, it is not the main purpose of the skeletal system. Therefore, providing support and structure is the most direct and accurate representation of what the skeletal system fundamentally does.