What is the function of the appendicular skeleton?

The appendicular skeleton serves a critical role in providing the structure necessary for movement and interaction with the environment. It comprises the bones of the limbs (arms and legs) and the girdles (the structures that connect the limbs to the axial skeleton, which includes the skull, vertebrae, ribs, and sternum). This configuration not only enables a wide range of movements such as walking, running, and manipulation of objects but also supports the weight of the body when in motion and during various activities.

The limbs project from the body, facilitating an extensive range of motion, allowing for activities that require fine and gross motor skills. The girdles, specifically the shoulder girdle (clavicle and scapula) and pelvic girdle (hip bones), play an important role in connecting these limbs to the main body, providing stability and support during movement. Thus, the correct answer highlights the essential function of the appendicular skeleton in locomotion and physical activity.