What is the primary function of the skeletal system?

The primary function of the skeletal system is to provide support and protection for the body. The skeletal system is made up of bones, joints, and connective tissues, and it serves as the framework that gives the body its shape and stability. It supports the weight of the body and helps maintain an upright posture. Additionally, the bones protect vital organs; for example, the skull encases the brain, while the rib cage shields the heart and lungs.

While other systems and functions are important, their primary roles differ from that of the skeletal system. For instance, circulating blood is primarily the responsibility of the cardiovascular system. Facilitating movement involves the interaction between bones and muscles, but movement itself is not the primary function of the skeletal system. Storing energy is chiefly the function of adipose tissue rather than bones. Therefore, the focus on support and protection distinctly illustrates why this is the correct answer.