Which of the following describes a break causing an abnormal alignment of bone pieces?

A break that causes an abnormal alignment of bone pieces is specifically referred to as a "displaced" fracture. In this type of fracture, the bone ends are separated and do not line up correctly, which can complicate healing and often necessitates realignment through medical intervention. The term "displaced" encapsulates the essence of misalignment, indicating that the pieces of bone are not in their normal anatomical position.

In contrast, a "nondisplaced" fracture (the second choice) means the bone cracks but maintains its alignment, illustrating a situation where the fragments remain in place despite the break.

A "comminuted" fracture, the third option, refers to a fracture where the bone is shattered into multiple pieces rather than just being misaligned. This means the fracture can be both displaced and comminuted, but the key term for describing the misalignment specifically is "displaced."

Lastly, a "Colles' fracture," which is another distinct type of fracture often seen in the wrist (typically from falling onto an outstretched hand), deals with a specific location and mechanism of injury but does not inherently define the alignment of bone pieces. It is a description based on the nature and location of the fracture rather than on whether