Which area of the skeletal system does the shoulder girdle belong to?

The shoulder girdle, also known as the pectoral girdle, is part of the appendicular skeleton. This region of the skeleton is responsible for the attachment of the upper limbs to the trunk. The appendicular skeleton includes not only the shoulder girdle but also the bones of the arms, legs, pelvis, and the girdles associated with these limbs.

In contrast, the axial skeleton comprises the bones that form the long axis of the body, including the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage. The cranial skeleton specifically refers to the bones of the skull that enclose and protect the brain, while the thoracic skeleton typically pertains to the rib cage area. Understanding these classifications helps clarify the functional and structural organization of the skeletal system, highlighting the role of the shoulder girdle as part of the appendicular system, which facilitates movement and mobility of the upper limbs.