Final answer:
Short bones, or cuboidal bones, are cube-shaped bones found in the wrists and ankles, providing stability, support, and limited motion, as opposed to the lever-like function of long bones.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is a Short Bone?
Short bones are types of bones in the human skeleton that are approximately equal in length, width, and thickness, giving them a cube-like shape. These bones are also referred to as cuboidal bones and are primarily found in the wrists (carpals) and ankles (tarsals). The structural design of short bones provides stability, supports the body, and allows for limited motion. Unlike long bones, which are cylindrical and function as levers, short bones are composed of a thin layer of cortical bone that surrounds a spongy bone interior, offering a different form of support and movement.