What structure is attached inferior to the patella?

The structure attached inferior to the patella is the patellar ligament, which connects the patella to the tibia. The patella, commonly known as the kneecap, serves as a protective structure for the knee joint and plays a crucial role in the biomechanics of the knee, particularly during movements such as walking, running, and jumping.

The patellar ligament is a continuation of the quadriceps tendon, which attaches to the superior aspect of the patella. When the quadriceps muscle contracts, it exerts force through the quadriceps tendon, the patella, and then through the patellar ligament to the tibial tuberosity on the tibia, facilitating knee extension.

In contrast, the other options refer to different anatomical structures. The quadriceps tendon is located above the patella, the hamstring tendon connects to the ischial tuberosity and plays a role in knee flexion but is not directly associated with the patella, and the Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel and is unrelated to the knee joint. Therefore, the correct identification of the patellar ligament as the structure inferior to the patella is fundamental in understanding knee anatomy and its functions.