What is the difference between the axial and appendicular skeleton?

Answer and Explanation:

The axial skeleton comprises of the central, vertical axis of the body. It includes the:

1. Skull

2. Ossicles

3. Hyoid Bone

4. Vertebral column

(Refer to the attached image)

The axial skeleton provides support for your the head, neck, back, and chest. It also provides support and protection for your brain, spinal cord, and internal organs such as your heart and lungs.

The appendicular skeleton includes the bones in your limbs and appendages such as:

1. Shoulder girdles

2. Clavicles

3. Humerus

4. Radius

5. Ulna

6. Femur

7. Tibia

8. Fibula

Etc.

The bones in the  appendicular skeleton attach to the ones in the axial skeleton. The appendicular skeleton enables us to move (walk, run, etc.), grasp objects in our hands and manipulate them for our day-to-day activities.