At the end of 1 year of age, the number of carpal bones seen in the skiagram of the hand is –

**Core Concept**
The question is testing the knowledge of the development and ossification of carpal bones in the human hand. The carpal bones are a group of eight small bones in the wrist that develop and mature at different rates during childhood.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
By the end of 1 year of age, the capitate and the hamate bones are usually the first to start ossifying, and they are often visible on an X-ray. Ossification is the process by which cartilage is gradually replaced by bone tissue, making the bones visible on an X-ray. The capitate and hamate bones are the first to start this process, while the other carpal bones develop and mature later. This knowledge is crucial in assessing the skeletal maturity of a child and identifying any potential developmental issues.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the bones mentioned here do not typically start ossifying until later in childhood. The first metacarpal bones and the proximal phalanges are usually the next to ossify, but this is not until around 2-3 years of age.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the scaphoid, lunate, and triquetrum bones do not typically start ossifying until around 3-4 years of age. The pisiform is the last carpal bone to ossify, usually around 5-6 years of age.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the ossification centers of the carpal bones appear at different ages, and this knowledge can be used to assess the skeletal maturity of a child. This is particularly useful in pediatric medicine, where it can help in diagnosing growth and developmental issues.

**Correct Answer: C. Capitate and hamate.**