Final answer:
Option (4), The sternum, ribcage, and spine (vertebrae) are bones in the trunk (chest and abdomen), while the pelvis is part of the pelvic girdle and not included in this category.
Step-by-step explanation:
The bones in the trunk of the human body, excluding the buttocks and shoulders, would include Option 1: Sternum, Option 2: Ribcage, and Option 3: Spine (vertebrae). The sternum or breastbone is located at the anterior of the chest and helps form the thoracic cage, or ribcage, which also consists of the ribs and thoracic vertebrae, serving as protection for vital organs like the heart and lungs.
The spine includes not only the thoracic vertebrae but also the lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions, supporting the body's weight and allowing upright posture. Option 4: Pelvis, however, is part of the pelvic girdle which is not included in this categorization as it is part of the lower trunk, connected to the lower limbs.
Therefore, in relation to the given options, the axial skeleton of the trunk includes the thoracic cage (sternum, ribcage) and the vertebral column (spine).