Which part is NOT included in the axial skeleton?

The pelvis is not part of the axial skeleton; it belongs to the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton includes the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, which collectively form the central axis of the body and are essential for protecting the brain, spinal cord, and thoracic organs. The axial skeleton supports the body’s weight and provides a scaffold for the attachment of muscles, while the appendicular skeleton comprises the bones of the limbs and girdles that enable movement and interaction with the environment. Understanding these distinctions between the axial and appendicular skeletons helps clarify their functions and roles in human anatomy.