Which of the following muscles is NOT a rotator cuff muscle?

Choice A reason: The scapula is part of the appendicular skeleton, not the axial skeleton. Therefore, this combination is incorrect.

Choice B reason: The pelvis includes both axial and appendicular components, but the pelvic girdle is considered part of the appendicular skeleton. This makes the answer inaccurate.

Choice C reason: Both the pectoral and pelvic girdles are part of the appendicular skeleton. Including them in the axial skeleton is incorrect.

Choice D reason: Arms, legs, hands, and feet are all part of the appendicular skeleton. They are not included in the axial skeleton.

Choice E reason: This is the correct answer. The axial skeleton consists of the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage. These structures form the central axis of the body and protect vital organs such as the brain, spinal cord, and thoracic organs.

Choice A reason: Protection of the brain is the primary function of cranial bones. They form the skull, which encases and shields the brain from mechanical injury.

Choice B reason: Muscles attach to facial bones, not cranial bones. While cranial bones may serve as attachment sites for some muscles, this is not their main function.

Choice C reason: The introduction of food into the digestive system involves the mouth and associated facial structures, not cranial bones.

Choice D reason: Passageways for respiratory gases are formed by facial bones and nasal structures, not the cranial bones.

Choice E reason: Special sense organs such as the eyes, ears, and nose are housed in facial bones and cavities, not primarily in cranial bones. Cranial bones protect the brain, not sensory organs.