Which bones are classified as short bones?

Short bones are primarily characterized by their roughly cuboidal shape, being about as wide as they are long. This structure provides stability and support while allowing for some limited motion. The tarsals, which are located in the ankle, and the carpals, found in the wrist, are textbook examples of short bones. Their compactness and strength are essential for load-bearing activities and facilitating movements in these joints.

The other groups of bones listed consist of long or flat bones. For instance, the femur and humerus are long bones that facilitate movement and support weight, while the radius and ulna are also long bones that enable arm movement. The scapula and clavicle are considered flat bones, which serve protective roles and provide a surface for muscle attachment rather than fitting into the category of short bones. Therefore, the tarsals and carpals distinctly fit the classification of short bones due to their shape and function within the skeletal system.