## **Core Concept**
The question assesses knowledge of growth and development in children, specifically focusing on the expected increase in height during the ages of 2 to 10 years. This period is crucial for understanding normal growth patterns and identifying potential growth disorders.

## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **C. 5–6 cm/year**, reflects the average annual increase in height for children between the ages of 2 and 10 years. During this period, children experience a relatively steady growth rate. On average, children tend to grow about 5 to 6 centimeters (or approximately 2 to 2.5 inches) per year until they enter puberty, when growth rates can significantly increase.

## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A: 10–12 cm/year** - This growth rate is too high for the steady state between ages 2 and 10. Such rapid growth is more characteristic of puberty.
- **Option B: 2–3 cm/year** - This rate is too low for the average annual growth in height during childhood, representing more of a growth rate seen in certain pathological conditions.
- **Option D: 10–15 cm/year** - Similar to Option A, this is excessively high for the 2–10 age range and more reflective of growth spurts during puberty.

## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that during the childhood years (roughly 2 to 10 years of age), growth velocity is relatively constant at about **5–6 cm/year**. Significant deviations from this growth pattern may necessitate further investigation for underlying conditions affecting growth.

## **Correct Answer:** . 5–6 cm/year