Vertebral column is formed of how many vertebrae ?

Options

A. 12
B. 26
C. 20
D. 24

Answer

To determine how many vertebrae are in the vertebral column, we can follow these steps:

1. **Define the Vertebral Column**: The vertebral column, also known as the spine or backbone, is a crucial part of the axial skeleton. It serves to protect the spinal cord and provides structural support for the body.

2. **Understand the Structure of the Vertebral Column**: The vertebral column is made up of individual bones called vertebrae.

3. **Count the Total Number of Vertebrae**: Initially, the vertebral column is composed of 33 vertebrae. However, this number includes the individual vertebrae before any fusion occurs.

4. **Identify the Fused Vertebrae**: In adults, some of these vertebrae fuse together. Specifically, the 5 sacral vertebrae fuse to form one sacrum, and the 4 coccygeal vertebrae fuse to form one coccyx.

5. **Calculate the Total Number of Individual Vertebrae**: After accounting for the fused vertebrae, we find that the total number of individual vertebrae in the adult vertebral column is 26.

6. **Conclude the Answer**: Therefore, the vertebral column is formed of 26 vertebrae in adults.

### Final Answer:
The vertebral column is formed of **26 vertebrae**.