Which region is described as having short spinous processes and long transverse processes?

• A. Cervical
• B. Sacral
• C. Lumbar
• D. Thoracic

Answer: (C)

Different regions of the spine have characteristic vertebral features that help identify them. In particular, the size and shape of the spinous and transverse processes are distinctive. Lumbar vertebrae are built to bear heavy loads, so their spinous processes are short and thick, while their transverse processes are relatively long to provide large surfaces for muscle attachment. This combination—short spinous processes and long transverse processes—is a hallmark of the lumbar region. In contrast, thoracic vertebrae have longer spinous processes that angle downward and have facets on the transverse processes for ribs, while cervical vertebrae have small, often bifid spinous processes and transverse foramina in the transverse processes. Therefore, the description fits the lumbar region best.