humerus
Definition
The humerus is the bone in the upper arm. It is the longest bone in the human body. It is also the bone that is most commonly fractured.
The humerus is made up of three parts: the head, the shaft, and the condyles. The head is the ball-shaped part that fits into the socket of the shoulder. The shaft is the long, straight part of the bone. The condyles are the rounded parts at the end of the bone that fit into the sockets of the elbow.
The humerus is responsible for a lot of movement in the arm. It allows us to move our arms up and down, and to rotate them. It also allows us to reach out and grasp objects.
The humerus is a very strong bone, but it is also very vulnerable to fractures. This is because it is the most exposed bone in the upper arm. Fractures of the humerus can occur from a fall, a direct blow to the arm, or from overuse.
If you have a fracture of the humerus, you will need to wear a cast for several weeks. You may also need physical therapy to regain the full range of motion in your arm.
How can the word be used?
The humerus connects the shoulder to the elbow.
Different forms of the word
There are no different forms of the word "humerus". It is a singular noun that refers to the long bone in the upper arm.
Etymology
The word "humerus" comes from the Latin word "humerus", which means "upper arm". It was first used in English in the 14th century.
Question
Where can the humerus bone be found?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the role and structure of the humerus bone in the human body, detailing its connections to the shoulder and elbow joints, and discuss how its unique anatomy allows for a wide range of arm movements and interactions with the skeletal system.
Answer:
The humerus is a long bone located in the upper arm, connecting the shoulder and elbow joints. It forms a vital part of the skeletal system, enabling a wide range of arm movements and interactions with other bones and muscles.
At the proximal end, the rounded head of the humerus fits into the shallow socket of the scapula, forming the shoulder joint. This ball-and-socket joint allows for a diverse array of movements, including rotation, flexion, extension, and abduction of the arm. The head of the humerus is held in place by the rotator cuff muscles, ensuring joint stability and facilitating complex actions like throwing or lifting.
The distal end of the humerus articulates with the radius and ulna bones of the forearm, forming the elbow joint. This hinge joint permits flexion and extension, enabling actions like bending and straightening the arm.
The humerus also serves as a point of attachment for various muscles, including those involved in arm movement and grip strength. Its unique structure, along with its articulations with the shoulder and elbow joints, enables humans to perform a wide range of activities, from intricate tasks to powerful movements, highlighting the remarkable integration of bones, joints, and muscles in the human body.