Question

What comparisons can be made between the bones of the axial and appendicular skeleton?

Answer 1

The axial skeleton consists of 80 bones forming the body's vertical axis, while the appendicular skeleton includes 126 bones of the limbs and girdles. The axial skeleton provides support for central body parts, and the appendicular skeleton facilitates movement and limb attachment.

Step-by-step explanation:

Comparisons between the bones of the axial and appendicular skeleton highlight distinct features and functions within the human skeletal system. The axial skeleton serves as the central axis of the body and includes 80 bones: the skull, vertebral column (encompassing the sacrum and coccyx), and the thoracic cage formed by the ribs and sternum. It provides support and protection for the brain, spinal cord, and thoracic organs.

The appendicular skeleton is composed of 126 bones which constitute the limbs and the girdles that connect the limbs to the axial skeleton. The pectoral girdle anchors the upper limbs to the thoracic cage, and the pelvic girdle secures the lower limbs to the vertebral column. These bones facilitate movement and interaction with the environment. Together, the entire skeleton is vital for movement, support, and protection of vital organs.

Answer 2

The axial skeleton is composed of all the bones that make up the axis of the body, namely the 22 bones of the skull, all the vertebrae. The axial skeleton also includes the rib cage consisting of the sternum forward and ribs laterally.

The appendicular skeleton designates the 206 bones that comprise the human body, the 126 that make up the upper and lower limbs and bone belts (shoulder bone or shoulder girdle and hip bones or pelvic girdle). It consists of the clavicles, shoulder blades, humerus, radius, ulna, all the carpal bones (hands and wrists), pelvic bones, femur, tibia, fibula and all bones ankle and foot. All these bones are bilateral (the one on the left and right).