Which bone is known as the knee cap?

The bone known as the knee cap is the patella. The patella is a small, flat, triangular-shaped bone that is situated in front of the knee joint. It serves several important functions: it protects the knee joint, improves the mechanical efficiency of the quadriceps muscle by increasing its leverage, and facilitates movement by providing a smooth surface for the knee joint to glide over during activities like walking, running, and jumping. Additionally, the patella is held in place by various ligaments and tendons, and it plays a crucial role in the overall stability and function of the knee. Understanding the role of the patella is vital for those studying anatomy and physiology, particularly in fields related to health care and physical therapy.