Is the tibia part of the axial skeleton?

The tibia is classified as part of the appendicular skeleton, not the axial skeleton. The axial skeleton comprises the central core of the body, including the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, which support and protect the organs in the head and torso. In contrast, the appendicular skeleton consists of the limbs and the supportive structures (such as the pelvic and shoulder girdles) that connect the limbs to the axial skeleton. Since the tibia is one of the two long bones in the lower leg, along with the fibula, and serves as a weight-bearing structure for the body’s movement and support, it is correctly identified as part of the appendicular skeleton. This distinguishes it from the axial skeleton which does not include any of the limb bones.