Which of the following is NOT a part of the appendicular skeleton?

• A. Sternum
• B. Clavicle
• C. Scapula
• D. Femur

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the difference between the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton includes the bones that form the central axis of the body, such as the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage. The appendicular skeleton includes the bones of the limbs and the girdles (pectoral and pelvic) that attach them to the axial skeleton.
2. Step 2: Review the listed options and identify which bones belong to the appendicular skeleton. The clavicle, scapula, and femur are all part of the appendicular skeleton because they are associated with the limbs and girdles.
3. Step 3: Examine the sternum. The sternum is part of the axial skeleton because it is located in the central axis of the body and forms part of the rib cage.
4. Step 4: Compare the sternum to the other options. Since the sternum is not part of the appendicular skeleton, it is the correct answer to the question.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the sternum is the bone that does not belong to the appendicular skeleton, based on its classification within the axial skeleton.