Ribs are of 3 types: 1. True ribs (first 7 pairs): Dorsally attached to the thoracic vertebrae and ventrally connected to the sternum with the help of hyaline cartilage. 2. Vertebrochondral or False ribs (8th, 9th and 10th pairs): These ribs do not articulate directly with the sternum but join the 7th rib with the help of hyaline cartilage. 3. Floating ribs (11th and 12th pairs): These ribs are not connected ventrally.