Final answer:
The statement about the kneecap being a short bone is false; it is a sesamoid bone, which is crucial for protecting the tendon from friction and increasing muscle leverage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the kneecap (patella) is considered a short bone is false. The patella is actually the largest sesamoid bone of the body. Sesamoid bones are small, flat bones that are shaped similarly to a sesame seed and develop inside tendons, often found near joints. The patella, specifically, is located in the tendon of the quadriceps femoris muscle and articulates with the patellar surface on the anterior side of the distal femur. This articulation acts to protect the muscle tendon from rubbing against the femur and increases the leverage of the quadriceps femoris muscle, enhancing its power across the knee joint.