How many pairs of ribs are present in the human body?

The human body typically has 12 pairs of ribs, making a total of 24 individual ribs. These ribs are categorized into three types: true ribs, false ribs, and floating ribs. True ribs are the first seven pairs, which attach directly to the sternum. The next three pairs are considered false ribs because they do not attach directly to the sternum; instead, they connect to the true ribs through cartilage. The last two pairs are known as floating ribs, as they do not attach to the sternum or to any other ribs.

Understanding the structure and classification of ribs is fundamental in anatomy, and recognizing that there are 12 pairs is crucial for various areas of study, including physiology and medical practices.