Final answer:
The nasal bone is the long, thin, rectangular bone that forms the bridge of the nose, connecting with the frontal and maxillary bones, and supporting cartilage that shapes the rest of the nose.
Step-by-step explanation:
The bone that is long, thin, rectangular, and forms the bridge of the nose is known as the nasal bone. This bone is a pair that lies under the root and bridge of the nose, articulating superiorly with the frontal bone and laterally with the maxillary bones.
The nasal bones are the key skeletal structures providing support to the nose's bridge. When damaged, it typically results in what is commonly called a broken nose.
The nasal bone connects to the septal cartilage, which contributes to the dorsum nasi, while the alar cartilage forms the apex of the nose, surrounding the nares (nostril openings). It's important to understand that the external appearance of the nose, including the bridge, apex, and nostrils, is a result of both bone and cartilaginous structures.