Question 24 • 2026-2027 EDGE Human Anatomy and Physiology A
The sternum, or breastbone, connects the ribs in the chest area while the vertebral column connects the ribs on the back area of the body. Which directional terms best describe the location of the sternum in relation to the vertebral column?
Answer
A
in the axial region of the body, inferior to the vertebral column
B
in the appendicular region of the body, anterior to the vertebral column
C
in the appendicular region of the body, superior to the vertebral column
D
in the axial region of the body, anterior to the vertebral column
Explanation
The sternum and vertebral column are both part of the axial region, which includes the body's central axis. The sternum lies toward the front of the body, so it is anterior to the vertebral column, which is toward the back. Therefore, the correct choice is “in the axial region of the body, anterior to the vertebral column.”
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