Final answer:
The thoracic cage consists of the ribs, sternum, thoracic vertebrae, and costal cartilages. It provides protection for organs, support for the shoulder girdles and upper limbs, and serves as an attachment point for muscles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The thoracic cage, also known as the rib cage, consists of the ribs, sternum, thoracic vertebrae, and costal cartilages. The thoracic cage encloses and protects the organs of the thoracic cavity including the heart and lungs, provides support for the shoulder girdles and upper limbs, and serves as the attachment point for various muscles. The sternum is a long flat bone located at the anterior of the chest. The ribs are 12 pairs of long curved bones that attach to the thoracic vertebrae and curve towards the front of the body, forming the ribcage. Costal cartilages connect the anterior ends of most ribs to the sternum.