What characteristic of short bones helps maximize shock absorption?

Short bones, such as those found in the wrists and ankles, are characterized by their spongy bone material. This spongy, or cancellous, bone structure is crucial for maximizing shock absorption. The porous nature of spongy bone allows it to deform slightly under pressure, which helps distribute the forces exerted on the bone more evenly and reduces the risk of fractures.

The arrangement of trabecular (or spongy) bone provides the flexibility and shock-absorbing qualities that short bones require, especially as they often bear load and absorb impact in various movements and activities. In contrast, other structures such as dense cortical material, high water content, and a compact structure do not provide the same level of flexibility or shock absorption as spongy bone.