What is the opposite of "flexion" in anatomical terms?

• A. Bending
• B. Adduction
• C. Extension
• D. Abduction

Answer: (C)

The opposite of "flexion" in anatomical terms is "extension." To understand this better, it's important to clarify the definitions of both terms. Flexion refers to the action of bending a joint, which typically decreases the angle between two body parts. For example, when you bend your elbow to bring your forearm closer to your upper arm, that's flexion.

On the other hand, extension is the action that increases the angle between body parts, essentially straightening a limb or returning it to the anatomical position after flexion. For instance, straightening the arm after bending it at the elbow illustrates extension.

In the context of movement around joints, flexion and extension are typically paired opposites in many body parts, making extension the correct choice for the opposite of flexion.