Which bones are included in the shoulder complex?

The shoulder complex consists of several key bones that contribute to its structure and function, primarily facilitating a wide range of arm movements. The correct answer includes the scapula, clavicle, acromion, and coracoid process, all of which play critical roles in shoulder mobility and stability.

The scapula, or shoulder blade, is a flat bone that provides attachment points for muscles of the shoulder and upper arm. The clavicle, or collarbone, connects the arm to the body and helps stabilize the shoulder girdle. The acromion is a bony projection on the scapula that forms the highest point of the shoulder, serving as an attachment site for muscles and ligaments. The coracoid process is another projection on the scapula, which also serves as a point for muscle attachment.

In contrast, the other options include bones that are not part of the shoulder complex. For example, the humerus, radius, and ulna are bones of the arm and forearm but do not belong to the shoulder girdle itself. Similarly, while the sternum and ribs are part of the thoracic skeleton, they do not directly contribute to the shoulder complex. The association of lumbar vertebrae and pelvis relates to the lower body structure