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

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

Answer: (C)

This combination of features points to the lumbar region. Lumbar vertebrae are built for weight-bearing and stability: they have large, kidney-shaped bodies to support the load, short and sturdy spinous processes, and relatively long transverse processes. The short spinous processes reduce prominence of the posterior elements and provide attachment points for strong back muscles, while the long transverse processes offer leverage and numerous attachment sites for ligaments and muscles that stabilize the spine laterally and assist in movement.

In contrast, cervical vertebrae usually show transverse foramina and often bifid, more slender spinous processes; thoracic vertebrae have long, downward-angled spinous processes and facets for ribs; the sacral vertebrae are fused into the sacrum. So the described feature pattern best matches the lumbar region.