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Multiple Choice
In a human arm, the phalanges are _____ to the humerus.
A
medial
B
distal
C
superior
D
proximal
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the anatomical terms used in the question. 'Distal' refers to a position farther away from the point of attachment or origin, while 'proximal' refers to a position closer to the point of attachment or origin. 'Medial' means closer to the midline of the body, and 'superior' means above or higher in position.
Step 2: Identify the structures mentioned in the question. The phalanges are the bones in the fingers, and the humerus is the upper arm bone that connects to the shoulder.
Step 3: Determine the relationship between the phalanges and the humerus. Since the phalanges are located farther away from the shoulder (the point of attachment of the humerus), they are considered 'distal' to the humerus.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. 'Medial' does not apply because the phalanges are not closer to the midline relative to the humerus. 'Superior' is incorrect because the phalanges are not above the humerus. 'Proximal' is incorrect because the phalanges are farther away from the point of attachment.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct anatomical term describing the relationship between the phalanges and the humerus is 'distal'.