Carpals are best described as which of the following?

• A. Ankle bones
• B. Shoulder bones
• C. Pelvic bones
• D. Wrist bones

Answer: (D)

Carpals are the eight small bones that form the wrist, the joint between the forearm and the hand. They make up the carpus, located between the radius and ulna of the forearm and the metacarpal bones of the hand, and they enable the wrist's range of motion. The wrist region is distinct from other parts: ankle bones are the tarsals in the foot, shoulder bones are the scapula and clavicle of the shoulder girdle, and pelvic bones form the pelvis. Knowing that carpals are wrist bones helps you place them directly where the forearm meets the hand and explains their role in wrist movement and stability.