Question

multiple choice question

the axial skeleton contains ______ bones.

90
85
80
75

Explanation:

Identify the divisions of the human skeleton

Using the Skeletal System knowledge point, the adult human skeleton consists of 206 bones divided into two main parts: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton.

Determine the number of bones in the axial skeleton

Using the Skeletal Anatomy knowledge point, the axial skeleton forms the central axis of the body and includes 80 bones:

• Skull (22 bones) and associated bones (7 bones: 6 auditory ossicles and 1 hyoid bone)
• Vertebral column (26 bones)
• Thoracic cage (25 bones: 24 ribs and 1 sternum)

$$ 29 + 26 + 25 = 80 $$

Answer:

• 90
• 85
• 80 (Correct answer)
• 75