Final answer:
The patella, also known as the kneecap, is the largest sesamoid bone in the body, providing protection and increased leverage for the quadriceps femoris muscle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The largest of the sesamoid bones is the kneecap, which is known as the patella. The patella is crucial for protecting the tendon of the quadriceps femoris muscle from friction against the distal femur during movement. This sesamoid bone is found in the tendon of the quadriceps, which is the substantial muscle of the anterior thigh, and it enhances the leverage power of this muscle as it extends the knee. Unlike other sesamoid bones that may vary in number and location, the patella is common to all individuals, making it a unique and vital part of the human skeletal system.
The largest sesamoid bone of the body is the patella, also known as the kneecap. Sesamoid bones are small, round bones that are incorporated into tendons where they cross a joint. The patella, located in the tendon of the quadriceps femoris muscle, articulates with the patellar surface of the femur to prevent rubbing of the muscle tendon against the distal femur and increase the leverage power of the quadriceps femoris muscle.