The oval-shaped opening in the occipital bone of the skull is the _____.

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks: 'The oval-shaped opening in the occipital bone of the skull is the ____.'

Since the answer provided is 'Foramen magnum,' we can explain why this is correct.

- The foramen magnum is the large, oval or circular opening located at the base of the skull in the occipital bone. It serves as the passageway for the medulla oblongata (the brainstem) and the vertebral arteries, as well as the meninges and spinal roots that accompany them. This makes it a central anatomical landmark of the occipital bone.

- In contrast, other skull openings (such as the optic canal, superior orbital fissure, or internal acoustic meatus) are located in different bones (sphenoid, temporal, or sphenoid, respectively) and have distinct shapes and contents. If you were to identify the opening by location and function, the oval shape at the posterior-inferior skull base through which the brainstem transitions to the spinal cord is uniquely described as the foramen magnum.

- The provided image highlights the occipital region and the large circular/oval hole at the base of the skull; this visual correlates with the classic description of the foramen magnum being the oval-shaped opening in the occipital bone.

- If you’re checking for common exam distractors, remember: the foramen magnum is not a canal or small passage; it is the principal large opening in the occipital bone, whereas many other foramina are smaller and located in the sphenoid, temporal, or other cranial bones with different names and functions.

Note: The answer options were not included in the data provided, so this explanation focuses on validating the stated correct answer and clarifying why it is the appropriate anatomical term for that feature.

The oval-shaped opening in the occipital bone of the skull is the _____.

View Explanation

Log in for full answers

Similar Questions

Question at position 3 The occipital condyles are oval projections that:Are located between the occipital and parietal bonesForm part of the orbit of the eyeForm the floor of the cranial cavityAllow passage for the carotid arteryArticulate with the atlas (C1 vertebra)

Bipedalism requires this hole

Please name the bone or feature of bone pictured below in RED:

What is the name for the ridge of bone directly above the eyes?

What part of this skull is designated by arrow "E"?

What part of this skull is designated by arrow "B"?

What part of this skull is designated by arrow "E"?

What part of this skull is designated by arrow "C"?

More Practical Tools for Students Powered by AI Study Helper

Homework AI Solver

Stylized AI Paper Writer

Plagiarism Checker Assistant

Citation AI Academic Writing Tool

In-Class Translation Assistant

AI Note Generator

AI Quiz Answers

Past Exam Questions from University Test Bank

Smart Practice Assistant

Adaptive Practice

Making Your Study Simpler