A large irregularly shaped process that is located only on the femur is called what?

A large irregularly shaped process that is located only on the femur is called what?

• A. Trochanter
• B. Epicondyle
• C. Tubercle
• D. Spine

Answer: (A)

A large irregular projection on the femur is called a trochanter. This term specifically refers to the big bumps you find on the proximal femur—the greater trochanter on the outer side and the lesser trochanter on the inner lower area—where major hip and thigh muscles attach. Tubercle describes a smaller bump, epicondyle is a projection near a joint condyle, and a spine is a sharp, slender projection found on many bones, not the large irregular shape typical of the femur’s trochanters. Because trochanter names those distinctive, sizable projections unique to the femur, it’s the best fit.

A large irregular projection on the femur is called a trochanter. This term specifically refers to the big bumps you find on the proximal femur—the greater trochanter on the outer side and the lesser trochanter on the inner lower area—where major hip and thigh muscles attach. Tubercle describes a smaller bump, epicondyle is a projection near a joint condyle, and a spine is a sharp, slender projection found on many bones, not the large irregular shape typical of the femur’s trochanters. Because trochanter names those distinctive, sizable projections unique to the femur, it’s the best fit.