The axial skeleton provides support and protection for the brain, spinal cord, and organs. It consists of the skull, vertebral column, and thoracic cage. The appendicular skeleton supports the limbs and consists of the pectoral and pelvic girdles. The pectoral girdle attaches the upper limbs, while the pelvic girdle attaches the lower limbs and allows for locomotion. There are five types of bones: flat, long, short, irregular, and sesamoid. Flat bones provide protection, long bones support weight and facilitate movement, and short bones provide stability at joints.