What is the primary function of short bones?

Short bones primarily serve the function of providing strength and stability while allowing for a limited range of motion. These bones, which are roughly cube-shaped, include examples like the carpals in the wrists and tarsals in the ankles. Their structure is designed to withstand compressive forces, making them strong and supportive in areas where a combination of stability and limited movement is necessary.

The function of short bones aligns with their role in the skeletal system, especially in areas that require a high level of stability, such as the wrists and ankles, where they help to support the body’s weight and allow for some flexibility in movement without sacrificing stability. This allows for effective load-bearing while still enabling certain motions that are essential for activities like running, jumping, or grasping.

In contrast, the other options represent functions that are not characteristic of short bones. Flexibility tends to be associated more with long bones or certain cartilage structures, while muscle attachment occurs mainly in long bones where greater leverage is needed. Mineral storage is typically associated with long bones and the medullary cavity, which contains bone marrow and is where minerals like calcium are stored.