The cervical vertebrae support which part of the body?

The cervical vertebrae are a group of vertebrae located in the neck region of the spine. Specifically, they consist of seven vertebrae labeled C1 through C7. Their primary function is to support and stabilize the head, providing the necessary structure for the skull to rest upon. Additionally, the cervical vertebrae facilitate a wide range of motion in the neck, allowing for movements such as tilting and rotating the head.

The arrangement of these vertebrae is also crucial for protecting the spinal cord, which passes through the vertebral canal created by the vertebrae. The cervical region is also involved in supporting the weight of the head, which can weigh between 10 to 12 pounds, and enabling various functions crucial for daily activities.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different areas of the body that are not directly supported by the cervical vertebrae. The lower back is supported by the lumbar vertebrae, the arms are primarily influenced by the structures of the shoulder girdle and upper thoracic vertebrae, and the legs are supported by the pelvic girdle and sacral vertebrae. Therefore, the cervical vertebrae specifically support the head and neck, making this option the correct answer.