What structure is often referred to as the "knee cap"?

The structure often referred to as the "knee cap" is the patella. This small, flat, triangular bone is located at the front of the knee joint and serves several important functions. It protects the knee joint, acts as a shield for the underlying joint structures, and plays a key role in improving the leverage of the thigh muscles that extend the knee. The patella is a sesamoid bone, which means it is embedded within the tendon of the quadriceps muscle, further enhancing its ability to assist with knee movement and stability. Its prominent position makes it easily identifiable, contributing to its common nickname of "knee cap." Other bones like the femur, tibia, and fibula are integral components of the leg and knee joint but do not perform the same protective and functional roles as the patella in the context of the knee.