Flat bones include which of the following?

Flat bones serve distinct structural and functional roles in the body, primarily providing protection for vital organs and serving as sites for muscle attachment. The correct response identifies the skull, ribs, and scapula as flat bones.

The skull protects the brain and houses sensory organs, while the ribs form the protective rib cage around the thoracic cavity, safeguarding the heart and lungs. The scapula, or shoulder blade, is a flat bone that plays a crucial role in shoulder movement and support.

Understanding the classification of bones helps in identifying their respective functions in the anatomy of the human body. Other choices listed include long and irregular bones that do not share the defining characteristics and roles of flat bones, allowing for a clearer understanding of bone structure and function.