Kentucky Governor's Cup Practice Test

Which bone is the uppermost bone in the cervical spine that supports the skull?

Atlas Axis Coccyx Lumbar

Correct Answer:

Atlas

Explanation:

The atlas is the first cervical vertebra that sits right under the skull and forms the joint with the occipital bones at the base of the skull. This atlanto-occipital connection lets you nod yes, so the skull rests securely on this topmost bone. It’s unique in structure, lacking a typical vertebral body and instead having arches and lateral masses to cradle the skull. Just beneath it is the axis, the second cervical vertebra, which provides rotation via its dens. The coccyx is the tailbone and the lumbar region is in the lower back, so neither is involved in supporting the skull.

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