Surface Markings TermsThe Skeletal SystemThe surfaces of bones have various structural featuresadapted to specific functions. These features are called surface markings. Long bones that bear a great deal of weight have large, rounded ends that can form sturdy joints, for example. Other bones have depressions that receive the rounded ends.Depressions and OpeningsForamenan opening through which blood vessels, nerves, or ligaments pass Example:Hole at the base of the SkullMeatusa tubelike passageway running within a boneExample:Within the earFossaa depression in or on a bone Example:Temporal FossaProcesses that form JointsCondylea large, rounded articular prominenceExample:Superior end of TibiaHeada rounded articular projection supported on the constricted portion (neck) of a boneExample:Head of the HumerusFaceta smooth, flat surface Example:In between vertebraeProcesses to which tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues attachTuberositya large, rounded, usually roughened processExample:Ischium (part of the Hip)Spinous processa sharp, slender projectionExample:Tail on the VertebraeTrochantera large, blunt projection found only on the femurExample:Head of the FemurCresta prominent border or ridgeExample:Hip Bone (iliac Crest)