Final answer:
Neandertals had distinctive physical traits including a large occipital bun, pronounced brow ridges, a spacious nasal cavity, and robust postcranial anatomy indicative of strong muscles. They were stocky, with males averaging a little over 152 cm tall, and had larger brain capacities than modern humans.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physical Traits of Neandertals:
The physical traits of Neandertals, or Homo neanderthalensis, are distinctive and show adaptations to their environment. Features of the Neandertal skull include a prominent occipital bun at the back, substantial brow ridges with an air cavity beneath, a spacious nasal cavity, and front incisors showing rounded wear patterns, likely due to chewing on materials like leather. Their postcranial anatomy reveals a broad scapula suggestive of strong rotator cuff muscles, and a robust humerus allowing for efficient throwing and spear use. Neandertals had a stocky build, with males averaging just over 152 centimeters in height and females slightly shorter. Their skulls had a large brain capacity, sometimes exceeding that of modern humans, and they had strong muscular builds. The robustness of their humerus reflects their physical lifestyle, which included hunting and possible use of projectiles.