The Appendicular Skeleton

A collection of vocabulary flashcards related to the appendicular skeleton, highlighting key anatomical terms and definitions.

Pectoral Girdle

Also known as the shoulder girdle; connects arms to the body and provides mobility.

Glenoid Cavity

The shallow cavity that articulates with the head of the humerus to form the shoulder joint.

Scapulae

Shoulder blades; comprise the pectoral girdle along with the clavicles.

Humerus

The long bone of the upper arm that articulates with the scapula at the shoulder.

Clavicle

Also known as the collarbone; connects the arm to the body.

Femur

The largest and strongest bone in the thigh; articulates with the acetabulum.

Tibia

Also known as the shinbone; the weight-bearing bone of the lower leg.

Fibula

A long, thin bone in the lower leg; does not bear weight and is parallel to the tibia.

Patella

Also known as the kneecap; a sesamoid bone that forms within the tendon of the quadriceps femoris.

Phalanges

The bones of the fingers and toes; 14 in total in the hand with proximal, middle, and distal segments.

Acetabulum

The deep socket in the hip bone that holds the head of the femur.

Pelvic Girdle

Consists of two coxal bones that support the weight of the upper body and connect the legs to the spine.

Tarsal Bones

Seven bones in the ankle that include the talus and calcaneus.

Articulation

The connection between two bones at a joint.

Interosseous Membrane

A fibrous membrane that connects the tibia and fibula along their lengths.