Which part of the skeleton comprises the skull and vertebral column?

The axial skeleton is the part of the skeleton that includes the skull, vertebral column (spine), and rib cage. It serves as the central framework of the body, providing support and protection for the brain, spinal cord, and thoracic organs. The skull protects the brain and supports the structures of the face, while the vertebral column encases and safeguards the spinal cord and allows for certain movements and flexibility.

In contrast, the appendicular skeleton consists of the limbs and their attachments to the axial skeleton, which includes the pelvic girdle and shoulder girdles. The pelvic girdle specifically refers to the bones that form the base of the spine and connect to the legs, while the thoracic skeleton is not a standard term used in anatomy to describe a specific part of the skeleton.

Understanding these divisions of the skeleton is crucial for recognizing how the body is structured and how its parts work together to allow movement and protect vital organs.