Final answer:
Each os coxae is formed by the fusion of three bones: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. The fusion of these bones occurs during late teenage years and into adulthood, forming the pelvic structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Each os coxae, also known as the hip bone or coxal bone, is formed by the fusion of three separate bones. These bones are the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. During the late teenage years, these bony components fuse together, and this fusion continues into adulthood.
The ilium forms the superior part of the hip bone, the ischium forms the posteroinferior part, and the pubis forms the anteroinferior part. Collectively, these three bones contribute to the bony structure of the pelvis, which plays a crucial role in supporting the body's weight and facilitating movement. Therefore, the correct answer to the question of how many bones fuse in adulthood to form each os coxae is option B) 3.