CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which bone in the human body is non-articulating?

1. Sphenoid Bone

2. Hyoid Bone

3. Coccyx

4. Scapula

The correct answer is: Hyoid Bone

The hyoid bone is recognized as a non-articulating bone because it does not form a joint with any other bone in the human body. This unique feature allows the hyoid to serve as an anchoring structure for the tongue and support for various muscles involved in swallowing and speaking. Positioned in the anterior neck, it is suspended by ligaments and muscles, which is why it is not connected directly to any of the surrounding bones. In contrast, the other choices listed involve articulations with adjacent bones. The sphenoid bone contributes to the structure of the skull and forms joints with several other cranial bones. The coccyx, or tailbone, is the final segment of the vertebral column and connects with the sacrum, confirming its articulating nature. Lastly, the scapula, or shoulder blade, connects with the clavicle and upper arm bone through the shoulder joint, reaffirming that it is also an articulating bone. This distinction emphasizes the hyoid bone's unique role and function within the human anatomy.