What are the small bones that comprise the wrist called?

The small bones that comprise the wrist are called carpals. The carpal bones consist of eight small bones arranged in two rows, which help facilitate the wide range of motion in the wrist and provide stability. They play a crucial role in the structural integrity and function of the wrist joint, allowing for flexion, extension, and rotational movements of the hand.

In contrast, metacarpals refer to the five bones that form the middle part of the hand, phalanges are the bones of the fingers and toes, and tarsals are the bones of the ankle. Understanding the specific names and functions of these bones is essential in anatomical studies related to hand and wrist injuries or conditions.