The human ribcage is made up of a series of curved bones called ribs, which are important for protecting the organs in the chest cavity, such as the heart and lungs. Each rib is attached to the spine at the back and curves around towards the front of the body. The correct answer to the question is option 4, 24 ribs.

Option 1, which states that there are 12 ribs, is incorrect. This is a common misconception, as there are typically 12 pairs of ribs, making a total of 24 ribs. Each pair of ribs is numbered, with the first seven pairs called true ribs, as they are directly attached to the sternum at the front of the ribcage. The next three pairs are called false ribs, as they are indirectly attached to the sternum. The last two pairs are known as floating ribs, as they are only attached to the spine and do not extend to the front of the ribcage.

Options 2 and 3, which suggest 14 and 16 ribs respectively, are also incorrect. The correct number of ribs in a typical human ribcage is 24.