Which skeleton is composed of bones that anchor the appendages to the axial skeleton?

The appendicular skeleton is responsible for anchoring the limbs (the appendages) to the body’s central structure, known as the axial skeleton. This includes the bones of the shoulders, arms, hips, and legs. Specifically, the pectoral girdle (shoulder girdle) connects the upper limbs to the axial skeleton at the sternum, while the pelvic girdle connects the lower limbs to the axial skeleton at the sacrum. The appendicular skeleton plays a critical role in movement and mobility, enabling a range of activities such as walking, running, and manipulating objects.

The axial skeleton, on the other hand, consists primarily of the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, providing core support and protection for vital organs, but does not include the bones that specifically anchor the appendages. The cranial skeleton is a part of the axial skeleton that protects the brain but does not interact with appendages. Similarly, the pelvic skeleton refers specifically to the bones that form the pelvis, which, while important for connecting the lower limbs, is a subset of the appendicular skeleton rather than a distinct composition itself. Hence, the appendicular skeleton is rightly recognized for its role in anchoring the appendages to the axial skeleton.