What bones are included in the appendicular skeleton?

The appendicular skeleton consists of the bones that facilitate movement and support the limbs, including the shoulder and pelvic girdles as well as the bones of the upper and lower limbs. This division of the skeleton is essential for understanding human anatomy as it directly relates to mobility and physical activity.

The shoulder girdle includes the collarbones (clavicles) and shoulder blades (scapulae), while the pelvic girdle connects the lower limbs to the axial skeleton. Furthermore, the appendicular skeleton encompasses all the long bones of the arms and legs, the bones of the hands and feet, including carpals, metacarpals, tarsals, and metatarsals.

Other options presented do not accurately represent the appendicular skeleton. For example, the first option lists the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, which are all parts of the axial skeleton rather than the appendicular skeleton. The option indicating carpals and tarsals only is too narrow, as it excludes significant components of the upper limbs and pelvic girdle. Lastly, the option stating all bones in the upper body is overly broad and does not clearly define which bones are included, misleadingly suggesting that the axial skeleton is part of the appendicular category. Thus,