Final answer:
The vertebral column initially consists of about 33 bones in fetuses and infants; however, due to the fusion of certain vertebrae, the adult vertebral column consists of 26 bones.
Step-by-step explanation:
In fetuses and infants, the vertebral column consists of approximately 33 bones. However, as the individual grows, certain vertebrae fuse together, such as the sacrum arising from the fusion of typically five vertebrae and the coccyx usually formed by the fusion of 3-4 vertebrae. By adulthood, the vertebral column consists of only 26 bones: 24 individual vertebrae along with the sacrum and coccyx. Hence, the correct answer to the student's question would be (a) 34;26.