How many bones are in the adult human skeleton?

The adult human skeleton contains 206 bones, which is the standard count used in anatomy. This number can vary slightly due to anatomical variations such as additional small bones called sesamoid bones that may develop in certain tendons or due to the presence of extra ribs or other atypical formations.

The count of 206 bones includes the bones of the axial skeleton, which comprises the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, as well as the appendicular skeleton, which includes the bones of the limbs and girdles. This classification is crucial for understanding human anatomy and for various medical practices, as an accurate knowledge of the bone structure is essential for diagnosis and treatment.

The other options listed (196, 216, and 226 bones) do not reflect the commonly accepted number of bones in the adult human skeleton, making 206 the most accurate and widely recognized figure.