What is the difference between the cervical vertebrae and thoracic vertebrae and lumbar vertebrae?

The Cervical vertebrae obtain:

- Bifid (meaning double) spinous processes

- Foramina transversarium for passage of nerves and vessels

- The body is a more oval shape

- Do not articuate with the ribs

The Thoracic vertebrae obtain:

- Spinous process (singular)

- No foramina transversarium

- The body is a small semi-circular shape

- Articulate with the ribs

-Have demifacets for articulation with the ribs

The Lumbar vertebrae obtain:

- Spinous process (singular)

- No transverse processes

- The body is a large circular shape

- Does not articulate with the ribs

- Demonstrates a "Scotty Dog" when positioned for a left/right anterior/posterior oblique radiograph.