Final answer:
The foot contains metatarsals, which are the long bones between the tarsal bones and the phalanges of the toes. The correct answer to the student's question is d. metatarsals. The foot also includes the lateral malleolus, but not the carpals, patella, or metacarpals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Components of the Human Foot
The foot contains several types of bones that form its structure, including the tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges. Specifically, the foot does not contain carpals, which are found in the wrist, or metacarpals, which form the palm of the hand. The patella, also known as the kneecap, is not present in the foot but is rather a bone located within the knee. Therefore, the correct answer is d. metatarsals.
In addition, the foot also has the lateral malleolus as part of the fibula on the outer aspect of the ankle. The metatarsals are the five long bones located between the tarsal bones of the posterior foot and the phalanges of the toes. These bones are crucial for supporting the body's weight and providing flexibility to the foot.
The big toe has only two phalanges, while the other toes each have three phalanges. The metatarsals contribute to the arch and strength of the foot and terminate in the ball of the foot. The fifth metatarsal can be identified by a bony protrusion on the lateral side of the foot, where it provides attachment points for muscles.