The correct option is 2 and 3 only
Explanation
The human skeletal system is divided into the axial and appendicular skeletons. The bones of the limbs (forelimbs and hindlimbs) fall under the appendicular skeleton. The arrangement of bones in the hand (forelimb) and foot (hindlimb) follows a specific pattern of numbers and types.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Pair 1 is Incorrect: Carpals are the bones of the wrist. In a human hand, there are 8 carpals arranged in two rows of four bones each (Scaphoid, Lunate, Triquetrum, Pisiform, Trapezium, Trapezoid, Capitate, and Hamate). The pair incorrectly states the count as 7.
- Pair 2 is Correct: Metacarpals form the palm of the hand. There are 5 metacarpals, one corresponding to each digit (thumb and fingers).
- Pair 3 is Correct: Phalanges are the bones of the digits (fingers). Each finger has 3 phalanges (proximal, middle, distal), except for the thumb (pollex), which has only 2. Therefore, the total count is \(2 + (3 \times 4) = 14\).
- Pair 4 is Incorrect: Tarsals are the bones of the ankle, found in the hindlimb (foot), not the hand. Furthermore, the number of tarsal bones in the human ankle is 7 (Calcaneus, Talus, Cuboid, Navicular, and three Cuneiforms), not 8.
Key Takeaway:
The wrist consists of 8 Carpals, while the ankle consists of 7 Tarsals. The phalangeal formula for both hands and feet is 14 (2, 3, 3, 3, 3).