What is the patella commonly known as?

The patella is commonly known as the kneecap. This small, flat, triangular bone is located at the front of the knee joint and plays a vital role in protecting the knee and assisting in its movement. It serves as a mechanical lever that increases the efficiency of the quadriceps muscle during activities such as walking, running, and jumping. Understanding anatomical terminology greatly aids in the study of the human body and is essential for those involved in fields related to healthcare, anatomy, and physiology. In contrast, other options like the elbow, ankle bone, and wrist bone refer to different anatomical structures in the body and do not pertain to the patella.