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Multiple Choice
The gliding motion of the wrist primarily uses which type of synovial joint?
A
Ball-and-socket joint
B
Plane (gliding) joint
C
Hinge joint
D
Pivot joint
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the types of synovial joints. Synovial joints are classified based on the shapes of their articulating surfaces and the types of movements they allow. Common types include ball-and-socket, hinge, pivot, and plane (gliding) joints.
Step 2: Review the characteristics of a plane (gliding) joint. These joints have flat or slightly curved surfaces that allow bones to slide past each other in a gliding motion. They are typically found in areas requiring limited movement, such as the wrist and ankle.
Step 3: Compare the plane (gliding) joint to other types of synovial joints. For example, ball-and-socket joints allow rotational movement (e.g., shoulder and hip), hinge joints permit flexion and extension (e.g., elbow and knee), and pivot joints enable rotational movement around a single axis (e.g., the atlas and axis in the neck).
Step 4: Focus on the anatomy of the wrist. The wrist contains several small carpal bones that articulate with each other and the radius. The movement between these bones is primarily gliding, which is characteristic of plane joints.
Step 5: Conclude that the gliding motion of the wrist is facilitated by plane (gliding) joints, as their structure and function align with the type of movement observed in this region.