Which of the following muscles is located in the anterior abdominal wall and is responsible for flexing the vertebral column?

• A. Rectus abdominis
• B. Gluteus maximus
• C. Trapezius
• D. Latissimus dorsi

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by identifying the location of the muscles listed in the options. The anterior abdominal wall is the front part of the abdomen, so focus on muscles located in this region.
2. Step 2: Understand the function of the muscles listed. The rectus abdominis is a paired muscle running vertically on each side of the anterior abdominal wall and is primarily responsible for flexing the vertebral column. The gluteus maximus is located in the buttocks and is involved in hip extension. The trapezius is a large muscle in the upper back and neck, responsible for moving the scapula. The latissimus dorsi is a broad muscle in the lower back, involved in arm movement.
3. Step 3: Match the function of flexing the vertebral column to the correct muscle. The rectus abdominis is the muscle that performs this action by contracting and pulling the rib cage closer to the pelvis.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options based on their location and function. Gluteus maximus, trapezius, and latissimus dorsi are not located in the anterior abdominal wall and do not flex the vertebral column.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the rectus abdominis is the correct answer, as it is located in the anterior abdominal wall and is responsible for flexing the vertebral column.