Heaviest vertebrae in man is `:-`

Options

A. Atlas
B. Axis
C. Lumbar
D. Thoracic

Answer

To determine the heaviest vertebra in humans, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Vertebral Column**: The human vertebral column is divided into different regions: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal. Each region has a specific number of vertebrae and serves different functions.

2. **Identify the Regions**:
- **Cervical Vertebrae**: There are 7 cervical vertebrae (C1 to C7).
- **Thoracic Vertebrae**: There are 12 thoracic vertebrae (T1 to T12).
- **Lumbar Vertebrae**: There are 5 lumbar vertebrae (L1 to L5).
- **Sacral Vertebrae**: The sacrum consists of 5 fused vertebrae.
- **Coccygeal Vertebrae**: The coccyx consists of 4 fused vertebrae.

3. **Focus on the Lumbar Region**: The lumbar region is located in the lower back and consists of 5 vertebrae (L1 to L5). These vertebrae are larger and more robust than those in the cervical and thoracic regions.

4. **Function of Lumbar Vertebrae**: The lumbar vertebrae are responsible for bearing the majority of the body’s weight and providing support for lifting and carrying objects. This is why they are larger and heavier compared to other vertebrae.

5. **Compare with Other Vertebrae**:
- The cervical vertebrae (C1 and C2, known as atlas and axis) are smaller and lighter, as they primarily support the head.
- The thoracic vertebrae are larger than cervical but not as large as lumbar vertebrae.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the size and function, the heaviest vertebra in humans is found in the lumbar region.

### Final Answer:
The heaviest vertebra in man is the **lumbar vertebra**.