How many pairs of ribs do humans have?

Humans have 12 pairs of ribs, making a total of 24 individual ribs. These ribs are classified into different types: true ribs, false ribs, and floating ribs, with the first seven pairs being true ribs that attach directly to the sternum. The next three pairs are considered false ribs, which do not attach directly to the sternum but are connected to the true ribs by cartilage. The last two pairs of ribs are known as floating ribs, as they do not attach to the sternum at all. The 12 pairs of ribs play a crucial role in protecting vital organs, such as the heart and lungs, and are essential for the respiratory mechanism, allowing for the expansion and contraction of the chest during breathing. Understanding the anatomy and function of the ribcage is fundamental in various fields such as medicine, biology, and health sciences.