Final answer:
The pelvic girdle 1. provides support and stability to the body, 3. protects internal organs, and is robustly constructed to bear weight. It is formed by the fusion of the ilium, ischium, and pubis bones, with strong ligaments connecting it to the axial skeleton.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characteristics of the Pelvic Girdle
The heavy bones and strong, stable joints of the pelvic girdle serve several important functions in the human body. These include providing support and stability to the body, especially in the context of bearing weight and movement. The pelvic girdle, formed by the fusion of the ilium, ischium, and pubis bones, is designed to be a weight-bearing structure that transfers the body's weight from the axial skeleton through the hip joints into the lower limbs. This supports bipedal locomotion and gives the body a sturdy foundation. Moreover, the pelvic girdle contains deep sockets that create robust connections with the femur, aiding in the attachment of the lower limbs to the body.
Additionally, one of the key characteristics of the pelvic girdle is the protection it offers to internal organs. The bone structure forms a basin-like cavity that contains and supports the organs of the abdomen and, in females, accommodates childbirth. On the other hand, the pelvic girdle is anything but lightweight and fragile; it is in fact a sturdy and resilient structure vital for various physiological functions such as locomotion and organ protection.