The sternum is an example of a(n) __ bone. sesamoid flat short long irregular

## Step 1<br />The sternum, also known as the breastbone, is a long, flat bone located in the center of the chest. It connects to the rib bones via cartilage, forming the front part of the rib cage. This structure helps protect the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels from physical trauma.<br />## Step 2<br />The sternum is classified as a flat bone due to its shape and function. Flat bones are typically thin, flattened, and often curved, providing protection to internal organs and offering a large surface area for muscle attachment.<br />## Step 3<br />The other options provided, such as sesamoid, short, long, and irregular bones, do not accurately describe the sternum. Sesamoid bones are small, round bones embedded within tendons. Short bones are approximately cube-shaped and provide support and stability with little movement. Long bones are longer than they are wide and have a shaft and two ends, like the femur. Irregular bones have complex shapes that do not fit into the other categories and vary in size and shape.