What is the name of the larger of the two bones forming the leg below the knee?

The tibia is the larger of the two bones located in the lower leg, below the knee. It is often referred to as the shin bone and is responsible for bearing most of the body's weight when standing and walking. In contrast, the fibula is a thinner bone situated alongside the tibia, providing structural support but bearing much less weight. The patella, known as the kneecap, is actually a bone that sits in front of the knee joint, while the femur is the thigh bone, connecting the hip to the knee. Understanding these distinctions is essential for recognizing the anatomy of the leg and the roles each bone plays.