What are false ribs?

False ribs refer to the ribs that do not attach directly to the sternum. In the human ribcage, there are 12 pairs of ribs, categorized into true ribs, false ribs, and floating ribs. The true ribs are the first seven pairs, which connect directly to the sternum via individual cartilage. The subsequent pairs, which are deemed false ribs, usually include the 8th through 10th pairs.

These ribs are termed "false" because they are not directly connected to the sternum but rather attach to the cartilage of the rib above them. This anatomical distinction is significant because it highlights the varying structural relationships within the ribcage, affecting both movement and ribcage flexibility.

The other options don't accurately describe false ribs. For instance, ribs that are fused to the sternum would classify as true ribs, which connect directly and provide support to the front of the ribcage. Ribs that are located in the lower back do not correspond to the rib classification, as the ribs are situated laterally in the thoracic region. Lastly, the description of ribs that are longer than typical ribs does not align with the classification of false ribs, since they may not necessarily differ in length from true ribs.