Which parts of the body are included in the appendicular skeleton?

• A. Skull and vertebrae
• B. Pelvic girdle and limbs
• C. Rib cage and sternum
• D. Hands and feet only

Answer: (B)

The appendicular skeleton is comprised of the bones that support the appendages and the pelvis. This includes the pelvic girdle, which connects the lower limbs to the axial skeleton, as well as the bones of the arms and legs. The major components of the appendicular skeleton are the shoulder girdle (clavicle and scapula), the upper limbs (humerus, radius, ulna, carpals, metacarpals, and phalanges), the pelvic girdle (hip bones), and the lower limbs (femur, tibia, fibula, tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges).

Understanding the distinction between the appendicular and axial skeleton is crucial; the axial skeleton consists of the skull, vertebrae, and rib cage, while the appendicular skeleton is focused on the bones involved in movement and supporting limbs. Thus, the identification of the pelvic girdle and limbs as components of the appendicular skeleton is accurate and highlights their role in mobility and physical function.