What is the role of the rib cage?

The rib cage primarily serves the essential function of protecting vital organs within the thoracic cavity, specifically the heart and lungs. The structure of the rib cage, composed of ribs connected to the thoracic vertebrae at the back and the sternum in the front, creates a bony enclosure that safeguards these organs from external trauma and injury. In addition to this protective role, the rib cage also plays a part in the mechanical process of breathing, as the ribs move to expand the thoracic cavity during inhalation and allow for contraction during exhalation, although the primary focus of the rib cage is its protective function.

While the other choices touch on related aspects of the rib cage's functionality, they are not as central to its main purpose. Supporting abdominal organs, aiding in muscle attachment, and facilitating breathing are all functions associated with the rib cage but secondary to its primary role of protecting critical organs like the heart and lungs.