IV IMPORTANT SKELETAL MUSCLES: TRUNK MUSCLES True or false 25. __ The external oblique compresses the abdomen. 26. __ The rectus abdominis flexes the trunk. 27. __ The levator ani closes the anal canal. 28. __ The external intercostals function to elevate the ribs. 29. __ The coccygeus muscles and levator ani form most of the pelvic floor.

## Step1<br />The external oblique muscle is one of the muscles of the abdominal wall. It compresses the abdomen, which is a true statement.<br /><br />## Step2<br />The rectus abdominis is a long, straight muscle extending along the whole length of the front of the abdomen. It flexes the trunk, which is also a true statement.<br /><br />## Step3<br />The levator ani is a muscle located in the pelvic floor. It does not close the anal canal, but rather supports the rectum and helps maintain continence. Therefore, this statement is false.<br /><br />## Step4<br />The external intercostals are muscles located between the ribs. They function to elevate the ribs during inhalation, which is a true statement.<br /><br />## Step5<br />The coccygeus muscles and levator ani are both part of the pelvic floor muscles. They work together to support the pelvic organs and maintain continence, which is a true statement.