The surface of the superior articular will work right above the inferior surface in a vertebra. This is not true in the atlas.
The superior and inferior articular processes of the atlas (C1) are uniquely structured to accommodate the skull and facilitate nodding movements. Unlike typical vertebrae, which have articular processes that connect with adjacent vertebrae, the atlas has more horizontally oriented superior articular processes that articulate with the occipital condyles of the skull. Additionally, the inferior articular processes of the atlas are designed to connect with the axis (C2), allowing for rotation of the head. This specialized morphology enables a greater range of motion in the cervical region compared to other vertebrae.
The axis (second cervical vertebra) has a small flat articular surface called the odontoid process or dens which articulates with the atlas (first cervical vertebra) to allow for rotation of the head.
The superior articular process of the sacrum articulates with the inferior articular process of the last lumbar vertebra (L5) to form the lumbosacral joint.
the transverse process and the articular process also spinous process
superior articular process
Articular cartilage
There is no inferior process on any vertebrae, thoracic or not. There is an inferior articular facet. The inferior articular facet would articulate with the superior articular facet of the vertebrae just superior to it.
The apophyseal joints are synovial joints in the vertebral column, between the superior or cranial articular process of one vertebra and the inferior or caudal articular process of the vertebra directly above it. See the link below:
No it doesn't. The atlas is the first cervical vertebra and the only one with no spinous process.
The odontoid process, also known as the dens, is derived from the first cervical vertebra (C1), which is called the atlas. During development, the dens of the axis (C2) separates from the atlas and forms as a distinct bony process.
The embryonic body of the atlas fuses with the axis to form the odontoid process or dens. This process helps to stabilize the joint between the atlas and axis, allowing for rotation of the head.