What is the main difference between the axial and appendicular skeleton?

The main difference between the axial and appendicular skeleton is that the axial skeleton consists of the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, while the appendicular skeleton includes the limbs and pelvic girdle. The axial skeleton serves primarily to protect the central nervous system and vital organs, providing a stable core structure for the body. In contrast, the appendicular skeleton is involved in mobility and allows for a wide range of movements due to its structure, which includes the arms, legs, and their respective girdles.

Understanding this distinction is crucial as it helps in grasping how the skeletal system is organized functionally and structurally. The two parts work together to allow for both protection and movement, making them integral to the overall functioning of the human body.