Final answer:
The spinous processes of the vertebrae are the parts that can be palpated on an intact human body. They protrude posteriorly and can be felt along the midline of the back. These processes are part of the vertebral arch that extends from the vertebral body.
Step-by-step explanation:
The part of the vertebrae you can palpate or feel on an intact human body would be the spinous processes. These are the protruding parts you can feel along the midline of the back. The spinous process is a posteriorly-oriented projection arising from the vertebral arch, which can be felt through the skin and muscles of the back. Each vertebral body has a vertebral arch attached to it, which includes the spinous process and other components like the transverse processes, superior and inferior articular processes, and the laminae. To elaborate, a typical vertebra consists of a body and a vertebral arch, which is formed by the paired pedicles and paired laminae. Intervertebral discs unite the bodies of adjacent vertebrae and provide cushioning and flexibility to the spinal column.