Cephalic index definitions
| Word backwards | cilahpec xedni |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The part of speech of the term "cephalic index" is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | ce-phal-ic in-dex |
| Plural | The plural of the word cephalic index is cephalic indices. |
| Total letters | 13 |
| Vogais (3) | e,a,i |
| Consonants (7) | c,p,h,l,n,d,x |
Cephalic Index is a measurement used in physical anthropology to determine the shape of a person's head by comparing the width and length of their skull.
The index is calculated by multiplying the maximum width of the head by 100 and dividing it by the maximum length of the head.
Importance of Cephalic Index
This measurement is essential in studying human evolution, population genetics, and understanding variations in skull shapes among different ethnic groups.
Types of Cephalic Index
There are three main categories: dolichocephalic (long-headed), mesocephalic (medium-headed), and brachycephalic (short-headed).
Each category has a specific range that helps classify individuals based on their head shape.
Anthropological Significance
Researchers use cephalic index measurements to study patterns of human migration, identify certain genetic traits, and analyze the cranial morphology of ancient populations.
Limitations of Cephalic Index
While this measurement provides valuable information, it is essential to consider that head shape can be influenced by various factors such as artificial cranial deformation or interbreeding between different populations.
Overall, the cephalic index remains a crucial tool in the field of physical anthropology, offering valuable insights into human diversity, evolution, and genetic relationships.
Cephalic index Examples
- The doctor measured the cephalic index of the newborn to track its cranial growth.
- Anthropologists use cephalic index measurements to study skull morphology in different populations.
- The cephalic index is calculated by dividing the head width by the head length and multiplying by 100.
- A high cephalic index is indicative of a broader skull shape, while a low index suggests a longer, narrower skull.
- Cephalic index data can provide insights into trends in human evolution over time.
- Forensic scientists analyze the cephalic index as part of identifying unknown individuals from skeletal remains.
- Understanding variations in cephalic index can help researchers explore genetic influences on skull shape.
- Doctors may consider cephalic index measurements when assessing conditions such as plagiocephaly, a type of head deformity.
- Some ethnic groups have characteristic cephalic indices that distinguish them from others.
- Researchers debate the significance of cephalic index in defining human racial categories.