The axial skeleton is found in the skull, ribs, vertebral column, and breastbone. These are the central parts of the skeleton that form the body's longitudinal axis.
The skull is the bony structure that forms the head and protects the brain. The ribs are curved bones that protect the chest and vital organs such as the heart and lungs. The vertebral column, also known as the spine, is a series of vertebrae that run from the base of the skull to the pelvis, providing support for the body and protecting the spinal cord. The breastbone, or sternum, is a long, flat bone in the center of the chest that forms part of the rib cage.
Together, these bones provide support and protection for the body's vital organs, as well as giving structure to the body and allowing for movement. The axial skeleton also serves as an attachment point for muscles and helps to distribute weight and maintain balance.