Which two bones form the pectoral girdle on one side?
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Correct answer: A. Clavicle and scapula
The clavicle and scapula form the pectoral girdle. The humerus belongs to the free upper limb.
Free topic practice · 10 original questions
Upper Limb Anatomy MCQs with Answers and Explanations
Use these upper limb anatomy MCQs to check key relationships before moving into detailed regional study. This set focuses on bones, joints and selected muscle actions. Attempt each question first, then use the explanation to identify the fact you need to revise.
What you will practise
- Identify the bones and articulations of the shoulder girdle.
- Recognise important forearm and hand landmarks.
- Connect selected upper limb muscles with their main actions.
Choose your answer before opening each explanation. These public examples are available without an account; saved tests and the complete practice library use member access.
Upper Limb Anatomy MCQs: questions and explanations
Which joint provides the bony connection between the pectoral girdle and the axial skeleton?
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Correct answer: B. Sternoclavicular joint
The medial clavicle meets the sternum at the sternoclavicular joint, linking the girdle to the axial skeleton.
In anatomical position, which forearm bone lies on the thumb side?
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Correct answer: C. Radius
The radius is lateral in anatomical position, on the thumb side. The ulna lies medially.
The bony tip at the back of the elbow is part of which structure?
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Correct answer: D. Olecranon of the ulna
The olecranon projects from the proximal ulna and forms the posterior bony prominence of the elbow.
Which part of the distal humerus articulates with the head of the radius?
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Correct answer: A. Capitulum
The radial head meets the capitulum. The trochlea instead articulates with the ulna.
How many carpal bones are normally present in one wrist?
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Correct answer: B. Eight
Eight carpal bones form the wrist, arranged in proximal and distal rows.
Which statement describes the usual phalangeal pattern of the thumb?
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Correct answer: C. It has two phalanges
The thumb has proximal and distal phalanges. Digits two to five each have an additional middle phalanx.
Which muscle is NOT one of the four rotator cuff muscles?
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Correct answer: D. Teres major
The cuff comprises supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis. Teres major is a separate shoulder muscle.
Which muscle is a major extensor of the elbow?
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Correct answer: A. Triceps brachii
Triceps brachii extends the elbow. Biceps brachii and brachialis are elbow flexors.
Which named action is produced by pronator quadratus?
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Correct answer: B. Forearm pronation
Pronator quadratus pronates the forearm. This rotates the radius across the ulna.
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References and further reading
- OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e: The Pectoral Girdle
- OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e: Bones of the Upper Limb
- OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e: Muscles of the Pectoral Girdle and Upper Limbs
Questions are original educational practice examples based on the concepts in these references. Send academic feedback or report a question.
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