What are the bones in the fingers collectively called?

The bones in the fingers are collectively referred to as phalanges. Each finger consists of three phalanges: the proximal phalanx, the middle phalanx, and the distal phalanx, with the exception of the thumb, which has two phalanges (the proximal and distal). This terminology is essential in anatomy, particularly in fields relating to anatomy, manual skills, and beauty services, such as nail care and manicure practices. Understanding these bone structures is important for manicurists as it relates to the anatomy of the hands and the proper handling of tools and techniques to ensure safety and effectiveness during nail services.

The other options refer to different anatomical structures: the humerus is the bone of the upper arm, the carpus comprises the eight bones of the wrist, and the metacarpus refers to the five bones in the middle part of the hand. Each plays a distinct role in the skeletal system, but they are not related to the fingers specifically.