Only estimated ranges are possible in determining the age of a skeleton (Pickering and Bachman 1997); for example, between 0 and 5 years, 18 and 23 years, 30 to 40 years, and 60+ years of age. Clues are derived from the fusion of the epiphyses of long bones, closure of endocranial sutures, and ossification of the sutures. In preadult individuals, the epiphyses and diaphysis union will be incomplete. In old age, the cranial sutures are less distinct, and the mandible height and thickness diminish and begin to appear more infantile.

Estimate the age of the skeleton of five of your bones and record observations that support your analysis:

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5. _______________