Which of the following skull bones articulates with the atlas vertebrae?

Options

A. Parietal
B. Temporal
C. Ethmoid
D. Occipital

Answer

To solve the question "Which of the following skull bones articulates with the atlas vertebrae?", we will follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Anatomy
- The atlas vertebra (C1) is the first cervical vertebra in the spine. It is unique because it supports the skull and allows for the nodding motion of the head.

### Step 2: Identify the Skull Bones
- The skull consists of various bones, but we need to identify which one articulates with the atlas. The primary bones to consider are:
- Occipital bone
- Parietal bone
- Temporal bone
- Ethmoid bone

### Step 3: Determine the Articulation
- The atlas vertebra articulates specifically with the occipital bone at the base of the skull. This connection is made through structures called occipital condyles, which are rounded projections on the occipital bone.

### Step 4: Eliminate Incorrect Options
- The parietal bone is located on the top of the skull and does not articulate with the atlas.
- The temporal bone is located on the sides of the skull and also does not connect with the atlas.
- The ethmoid bone is a small bone located near the nasal cavity and does not articulate with the atlas.

### Step 5: Conclusion
- The only skull bone that articulates with the atlas vertebra is the occipital bone, specifically through the occipital condyles.

### Final Answer
- The correct answer is the **occipital bone**.

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