AEMCA Practice Exam

What does the appendicular skeleton comprise?

1. Bones of the skull and rib cage

2. Bones of the shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle

3. Bones of the spine and thorax

4. Bones of the hands and feet only

The correct answer is: Bones of the shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle

The appendicular skeleton is specifically composed of the bones that facilitate movement and interaction with the environment. This includes the bones of the shoulder girdle, which attaches the upper limbs to the trunk, and the pelvic girdle, which connects the lower limbs to the body. These girdles enable a wide range of movements and support the limbs' structural integrity. Understanding the role of the appendicular skeleton is crucial because it plays a key role in locomotion and manipulation of objects. The upper limbs (arms) and lower limbs (legs), along with their respective girdles, are essential for various physical activities such as walking, running, throwing, and lifting. In contrast, the other options describe components of the axial skeleton or specific bone groupings that do not encompass the entire appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton includes structures like the skull, spine, and rib cage, which provide support and protection for vital organs but are not involved in limb movement. Thus, the appendicular skeleton's definition is best captured by its relationship with the shoulder and pelvic girdles.