QHow many bones make up the axial skeleton?
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Explanation
The axial skeleton is the portion of the human skeletal system that consists of bones along the body's central axis. It includes the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage. In total, there are 80 bones in the axial skeleton. These bones provide support and protection for the body's vital organs and also serve as attachment points for muscles that allow for movement.
The skull is composed of 22 bones that are fused together, except for the mandible (lower jawbone) which is movable. The vertebral column is made up of 33 individual vertebrae that are separated by intervertebral discs. The thoracic cage, which protects the organs of the chest, consists of the sternum and 12 pairs of ribs, bringing the total number of bones in the axial skeleton to 80.
It's important to note that while there are 80 bones in the axial skeleton, the total number of bones in the human body is 206. The remaining 126 bones are part of the appendicular skeleton, which includes the bones of the arms, legs, pelvis, and shoulder girdle.
In summary, the axial skeleton comprises 80 bones, including those in the skull, vertebral column, and thoracic cage, and provides support and protection for the body's organs while allowing for movement through muscle attachment points.
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