What anatomical description is given for 'abduction of the scapula'?

Abduction of the scapula refers specifically to the movement where the scapulae (shoulder blades) move away from each other along the rib cage. This action is commonly seen when you extend your arms forward or to the sides, such as in certain gym exercises or during wide reaching motions. The term "protraction" accurately describes this action, as it involves moving the shoulder blades forward and away from the spine, which is the opposite of retraction (moving them closer to the spine).

In contrast, the other terms relate to different movements. Retraction involves pulling the shoulder blades closer together, depression refers to moving the shoulder blades downward, and elevation describes lifting them upward. Each of these movements focuses on specific directions and positions of the scapula, reinforcing that abduction, or protraction, distinctly describes the movement of the scapula away from the center of the body.