Which of the following is not a bone in the axial skeleton?

The clavicle is not classified as a bone of the axial skeleton; it is part of the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton primarily includes the bones that form the long axis of the body, which are critical for protection and support. This skeleton consists of the skull, vertebral column, ribs, and sternum. Each of these components serves significant roles in encasing vital organs like the brain, heart, and lungs, as well as providing attachment points for muscles and facilitating movement.

In contrast, the clavicle, which connects the arm to the body, is categorized under the appendicular skeleton, focused on limb movement and support rather than the central framework of the body. Understanding the distinction between these two skeletal divisions helps in identifying how different bones contribute to the overall structure and function of the human body.