Which is a section of the skeleton that includes the vertebral column and ribs?
A pectoral girdle
B abdominal
C appendicular
D axial
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is D axial.
The axial skeleton includes the bones that form the central axis of the body. It is composed of the skull, vertebral column (spine), ribs, and sternum. These structures provide support, protect internal organs, and enable basic body functions like breathing and movement.
The vertebral column, also known as the spine, consists of 33 vertebrae that are divided into regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), lumbar (lower back), sacral (pelvic region), and coccygeal (tailbone). The spine serves as the primary support for the body and houses the spinal cord, which transmits nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The ribs, which are attached to the thoracic vertebrae, form the rib cage that encloses and protects vital organs, particularly the heart and lungs.
In contrast, the pectoral girdle (A) refers to the bones that connect the arms to the axial skeleton, including the clavicles (collarbones) and scapulae (shoulder blades). The abdominal section (B) is not an anatomical term used to describe a portion of the skeleton; it refers to the region of the body below the ribs and above the pelvis. The appendicular skeleton (C) includes the limbs and their associated girdles, like the arms, legs, hands, feet, and the pelvic and pectoral girdles.
The axial skeleton’s role is to provide structural support and protect critical organs, while the appendicular skeleton is involved in movement and interaction with the environment.