Final answer:
The hamate bone articulates with the base of the 4th and 5th metacarpals, identifiable by its prominent hook-like feature on the anterior side.
Step-by-step explanation:
The carpal bone that articulates with the base of the 4th and 5th metacarpals is the hamate. This bone is part of the distal row of the carpal bones that form the base of the hand, arranged from medial to lateral as hamate, capitate, trapezoid, and trapezium bones. The hamate is characterized by a prominent bony extension on its anterior side called the hook of the hamate bone.
The carpal bone that articulates with the base of the 4th and 5th metacarpals is the hamate. It is one of the distal carpal bones, and it articulates with the 4th and 5th metacarpals on one side and the lunate and triquetrum on the other side. The hamate bone is characterized by a prominent bony extension on its anterior side called the hook of the hamate bone.