In which skeletal component does the rib cage belong?

The rib cage is classified under the axial skeleton, which consists of the bones that form the central axis of the body. This includes the skull, vertebral column, and thoracic cage (which contains the ribs and sternum). The primary role of the axial skeleton is to provide support and protection for the brain, spinal cord, and thoracic organs, which aligns with the function of the rib cage in safeguarding the heart and lungs.

In contrast, the appendicular skeleton includes the bones of the limbs and their attachments to the trunk but does not involve the central structure like the rib cage. The facial skeleton specifically refers to the bones that form the structure of the face, and the vertebral column is just one component of the axial skeleton, comprising the spine. Therefore, the rib cage’s role in protecting vital organs and its connection to the central body structure firmly places it in the axial skeleton classification.