Which of the following is considered an axial muscle?

• A. None of these
• B. Leg muscles
• C. Neck muscle
• D. Biceps

Answer: (C)

The question tests the distinction between axial and appendicular muscles. Axial muscles are those around the body's central axis—the head, neck, trunk, and spine—and they mainly support posture, stabilize the spine, and assist with breathing. Appendicular muscles belong to the limbs and girdles and move the arms and legs.

The neck muscles fit into the axial group because they move and stabilize the head and neck, belonging to the central axis of the body. Leg muscles and the biceps are part of the limbs (appendicular), so they are not axial. Therefore, the neck muscle is the axial muscle.