The Importance of Understanding the Appendicular Skeleton
To which skeletal system do the carpals belong?
a) spongy skeleton
b) compact skeleton
c) axial skeleton
d) appendicular skeleton
Answer: Appendicular skeleton
Explanation:
The carpals are bones that make up part of the hand, so the Appendicular system would be an appropriate answer. The Appendicular system got its name because it is the appendages of the axial skeleton. Your hand (as well as your arms, legs, pelvic girdle, feet, etc.) is considered your appendage so it would make sense for the bones that allow your wrist to move and rotate are considered it as well.
The Appendicular skeleton is the portion of the skeleton of vertebrates consisting of the bones that support the appendages. The appendicular skeleton includes the skeletal elements within the limbs, as well as supporting shoulder girdle pectoral and pelvic girdle.