thigh

[curioucity]

Hi

Here's some question

Why is it that on most animals (high-chordata, preferably), the upper-thigh is thicker than the lower part of the leg?

 

[spuriousmonkey]

because that is where the muscles are?

 

[curioucity]

and why isn't that mass of muscles pulled by gravity?

 

[SwedishFish]

so has anyone gone outside to see mars close up yet?

(changing the subject BECAUSE I CAN)

 

[koolmodee]

Yes to the Mars question

....but back onto topic A thicker thigh is needed because most movement (ie locomotion) occurs here. So, for walking we have bigger muscles and bones around the thigh area so we can bend and extend at the hip as well as supporting the weight of the body.

Well that's the impression that I get.....but I could be wrong

 

[sargentlard]

I guess that is due to the fact the most of the power comes from that region to push the body for movement. That is the powerhouse for walking force and running...legs only act like wheels in way.

 

[curioucity]

So, you mean, the movement supported by the hip-joit requires extra power, that's why thighs are thicker then the lower legs?

 

[sargentlard]

Originally posted by curioucity
So, you mean, the movement supported by the hip-joint requires extra power, that's why thighs are thicker then the lower legs?

Yes. They produce the most power so they require power house muscles.