What bone forms the anterior part of the shoulder girdle?

The clavicle is the bone that forms the anterior part of the shoulder girdle. It serves as a strut between the sternum and the scapula, providing stability and support to the shoulder. The clavicle helps hold the shoulder away from the body and plays a crucial role in the movement and function of the upper limb. It articulates with the manubrium of the sternum at one end and the acromion of the scapula at the other, facilitating a range of movements such as raising the arm.

In contrast, the scapula, while vital for shoulder function, is positioned posteriorly and does not form part of the anterior structure of the shoulder girdle, whereas the humerus is the bone of the upper arm that connects to the shoulder joint but is not part of the girdle itself. The radius is one of the forearm bones and is not involved in the structure of the shoulder girdle at all. Therefore, the clavicle's unique positioning and role in connecting the upper limb to the axial skeleton make it the correct answer.