Final answer:
The statement is true; the calcaneus is the largest tarsal bone in the foot and serves as the main weight-bearing bone, transferring body weight to the ground.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'the calcaneus is the largest of the bones' refers to the calcaneus being the largest of the tarsal bones in the foot, which is true.
The calcaneus, also known as the heel bone, is indeed the largest bone in the human foot. It serves as the foundation for the posterior part of the foot, carrying the weight from the tibia through the talus and then to the ground. The talus sits above the calcaneus and articulates with it to transfer body weight.
The sustentaculum tali, a part of the medial calcaneus, provides support for the talus. The calcaneus also articulates anteriorly with the cuboid bone, further contributing to the foot's skeletal structure. This large tarsal bone is essential in walking, running, and bearing the body's weight.