Anatomy Practice Exam 2025 - Free Anatomy Practice Questions and Study Guide

The axial skeleton is the central core of the skeletal system and includes the skull, rib cage, and vertebral column. This component plays a critical role in protecting the vital organs, such as the brain, heart, and lungs. The skull protects the brain and forms the structure of the face. The rib cage encases the heart and lungs, providing both a structural framework and a protective barrier. The vertebral column, or spine, supports the body's structure, allowing for flexibility and movement while safeguarding the spinal cord, which is crucial for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

In contrast, the appendicular skeleton relates to the limbs and the girdles (shoulder and pelvic) that attach them to the axial skeleton, while terms like "articular skeleton" and "peripheral skeleton" are not standard classifications in anatomy. Therefore, the classification of the skull, rib cage, and vertebral column as part of the axial skeleton is essential for understanding how these bones work together to maintain overall structural integrity and organ protection in the human body.