What is the primary function of the axial skeleton?

The primary function of the axial skeleton is to provide protection for internal organs and support the body. The axial skeleton consists of the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, which together form the central axis of the body. This structure plays a crucial role in safeguarding vital organs, such as the brain, heart, and lungs, while also serving as a sturdy framework that supports the body's structure and enables posture.

Furthermore, the axial skeleton is essential for maintaining the alignment of the body. It also facilitates attachment points for muscles, which play a vital role in movement and stability, although the primary function pertains more to protection and support. While storage of minerals and the production of blood cells occur primarily in the skeletal system as a whole, they are not the main functions of the axial skeleton specifically.