Final answer:
The thoracic vertebrae articulate with ribs at the body and transverse processes through the use of costal facets and a transverse process facet for rib attachment and movement. The correct option is A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The thoracic vertebrae articulate with ribs at the body and transverse processes. Specifically, thoracic vertebrae have costal facets on the lateral sides of the vertebral body for articulation with the head of a rib, and they have a facet on the transverse process for articulation with the rib tubercle.
Each thoracic vertebra typically has two of these costal facets, which are referred to as superior and inferior articular facets, located on the vertebral body. The transverse process facet provides a point of articulation for the tubercle of a rib, allowing for attachment and movement.
These articulation points are critical for the support and flexibility required by the thoracic region of the vertebral column. The correct option is A.