Short bones include carpals and tarsals.

• A. Long bones
• B. Carpals and tarsals
• C. Irregular bones
• D. Flat bones

Answer: (B)

Short bones are defined by their shape: they’re roughly as long as they are wide, giving stability with limited movement. Carpals in the wrist and tarsals in the ankle are classic examples of this. Their cube-like form helps them absorb and distribute forces in tight joints, supporting weight and providing a stable base for nearby structures. They’re typically small blocks of cancellous bone with a thin outer layer of compact bone, which suits their role in cushioning and providing stability.

In contrast, long bones (like the femur or humerus) are longer than wide and act as levers for movement; irregular bones (such as the vertebrae) have complex shapes to fit their specific functions; and flat bones (like the skull bones or sternum) are thin and curved, protecting organs and providing broad surfaces for muscle attachment. That combination of shape and function is why carpals and tarsals exemplify short bones.