Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

What is another word for the kneecap in the human body?

1. Tibia

2. Fibula

3. Patella

4. Femus

The correct answer is: Patella

The kneecap is anatomically referred to as the patella. It is a small, flat, triangular bone located in front of the knee joint, functioning to protect the knee and improve the leverage of the thigh muscles. The patella plays a crucial role in the biomechanics of the leg, aiding in the extension of the knee and providing stability during activities such as walking, running, and jumping. The other terms presented refer to different bones in the leg. The tibia, commonly known as the shinbone, is one of the two long bones in the lower leg that bears weight. The fibula, located alongside the tibia, is a thinner bone that does not play a primary role in weight-bearing. The femur is the thigh bone, the largest bone in the body, which connects to the patella at the knee. Understanding these distinctions highlights the patella's unique position and function within the skeletal system.