What term describes the motion of a limb away from the midline of the body?

The term that describes the motion of a limb away from the midline of the body is abduction. This movement is fundamental in understanding how limbs articulate and move in relation to the body's central line. When a limb is raised sideways (like lifting your arm out to the side), it is moving away from the body's center, which is what defines abduction.

In contrast, adduction refers to the motion of a limb toward the midline of the body, which is the opposite of abduction. Flexion and extension pertain to bending and straightening actions, respectively, typically relating to angle changes at joints, rather than lateral movements. Recognizing the correct terms and their definitions is vital in fields such as anatomy, physical therapy, and emergency care, where precise language can significantly impact patient assessment and treatment planning.