Question

What is the main distinction between the appendicular and axial skeletons?

A) The appendicular skeleton includes the bones of the limbs and girdles, while the axial skeleton comprises the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage.

B) The axial skeleton is responsible for movement, while the appendicular skeleton provides support and protection.

C) The appendicular skeleton consists of the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, while the axial skeleton includes the bones of the limbs and girdles.

D) Both the appendicular and axial skeletons are responsible for support, protection, and movement in the human body.

Answer 1

The appendicular skeleton includes the bones of the limbs and girdles, while the axial skeleton consists of the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, serving as the central support and protecting vital organs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main distinction between the appendicular and axial skeletons is that the appendicular skeleton includes the bones of the limbs and girdles, which attach the limbs to the axial skeleton. Specifically, the appendicular skeleton consists of the pectoral and pelvic girdles, as well as all the bones of the upper and lower limbs, including the bones of the hands and feet. In contrast, the axial skeleton forms the central axis of the body and is composed of the skull, vertebral column, and thoracic cage, which includes the ribs and sternum. It serves to support the head, neck, back, chest, and thus forms the vertical axis of the body while also protecting vital organs such as the brain, spinal cord, heart, and lungs.