Read the following statements regarding the human axial skeleton: (A) The first vertebra is the atlas and it articulates with the occipital condyles. (B) The thoracic vertebrae, ribs and sternum together form the rib cage. (C) The lumbar region of the vertebral column consists of seven vertebrae. (D) The sacrum is formed by the fusion of four vertebrae. How many of the above statements are correct?

Step-by-step solution

Let us evaluate each statement based on the human skeletal system: Statement (A) is correct. The first vertebra is the atlas and it articulates with the two occipital condyles (dicondylic skull). Statement (B) is correct. The rib cage is anatomically formed by the thoracic vertebrae dorsally, ribs laterally, and the sternum ventrally. Statement (C) is incorrect. The lumbar region consists of 5 vertebrae, whereas the cervical region consists of 7 vertebrae. Statement (D) is incorrect. The sacrum is formed by the fus