In a human arm, the phalanges are _____ to the humerus.

• A. distal
• B. superior
• C. medial
• D. proximal

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the anatomical terms provided in the options. 'Distal' refers to a position farther away from the point of attachment or origin, 'Superior' refers to a position above or higher, 'Medial' refers to a position closer to the midline of the body, and 'Proximal' refers to a position closer to the point of attachment or origin.
2. Step 2: Identify the anatomical structures mentioned in the question. The phalanges are the bones in the fingers, while the humerus is the upper arm bone that connects to the shoulder.
3. Step 3: Consider the relative position of the phalanges to the humerus. Since the phalanges are located farther away from the shoulder (the point of attachment of the humerus), they are considered 'distal' to the humerus.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options based on the definitions. 'Superior' does not apply because the phalanges are not above the humerus. 'Medial' does not apply because the phalanges are not closer to the midline relative to the humerus. 'Proximal' does not apply because the phalanges are farther away from the point of attachment.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct anatomical term describing the position of the phalanges relative to the humerus is 'distal'.