One of the functions of the skeleton is to store and release which of the following?

The skeleton has a crucial role in the body beyond mere structural support; one of its essential functions is the storage and release of minerals. Bones primarily store calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for various bodily functions, including nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and the maintenance of strong, healthy bones.

Calcium is particularly important because it not only strengthens bones but also plays a critical role in physiological processes such as blood clotting and hormone secretion. When the body needs these minerals, they can be released from the bones into the bloodstream, ensuring that various systems in the body function effectively. This storage mechanism helps regulate mineral levels in the body, contributing to overall homeostasis.

Other options like sugar, hormones, and enzymes do not align with the primary mineral storage function of the skeleton. Sugar is primarily stored in the liver and muscles in the form of glycogen, hormones are produced and released by endocrine glands, and enzymes function as catalysts in metabolic processes but are not stored in the skeletal system. Therefore, the skeleton's role in mineral storage and release is a central aspect of its function in maintaining health and supporting the body's needs.