What are the two broad divisions of the skeletal system?

• A. Axial skeleton and Appendicular skeleton
• B. Muscular skeleton and Nervous skeleton
• C. Vertical skeleton and Lateral skeleton
• D. Central skeleton and Peripheral skeleton

Answer: (A)

The two broad divisions of the skeletal system are the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton forms the central axis of the body, including the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, and it mainly protects vital organs and supports the body's upright posture. The appendicular skeleton includes the shoulder and pelvic girdles plus the bones of the limbs, and it is primarily involved with movement and interacting with the environment. The other options don’t describe recognized skeletal divisions—there isn’t a “muscular,” “nervous,” or “central/peripheral” skeleton. So axial versus appendicular best captures how the bones are organized and function.