What is the name of the heel bone?

The heel bone is known as the calcaneus. It is the largest bone in the foot and serves a critical role in weight-bearing and walking. The calcaneus provides support for the body and forms a connection point for several important structures, including the Achilles tendon, which attaches the calf muscles to the heel. Its position allows for significant impact absorption during movement, making it vital for locomotion and stability.

The other bones listed, while all part of the skeletal system, serve different functions in the body. The patella, commonly known as the kneecap, protects the knee joint and assists in knee extension. The fibula is one of the bones of the lower leg, running parallel to the tibia and contributing to ankle stability but not weight-bearing as much. The scapula, or shoulder blade, plays a crucial role in shoulder mobility and stability but is not associated with the foot. Thus, understanding the function and location of the calcaneus reinforces its importance as the heel bone.