Final answer:
The bones in question are the metatarsal bones of the feet, which are analogous to the metacarpal bones of the hands. The metacarpal bones form the palm and are essential for hand movement and dexterity.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are five metatarsal bones in the structure mentioned in the question. The metacarpal bones, referred to, form the palm of the hand and are numbered from 1 to 5, starting with the thumb side.
The metacarpal bones are long bones that connect the carpal bones of the wrist to the phalanges of the fingers and thumb. The first metacarpal bone allows for a greater range of movement, contributing to the thumb's opposability. The remaining metacarpal bones form a solid base for the palm. Each bone has a proximal end that articulates with the distal carpal bones and a distal end that forms the knuckle and articulates with the proximal phalanges.
The function of these long bones is critical in the hand's movement, providing the ability to grip, lift, and perform fine motor skills. It's important to distinguish between the metacarpals of the hand and the metatarsals of the foot, as both sets of bones share similar naming conventions and structural functions related to their respective limbs.