hand is part of the ball - clarification

[Starman311]

How is the word "hand" interpreted? I noticed someone mentioned in this thread "not wrist". If contact is made either on or below the wrist, I assume that is a foul. Is that correct?

Further, I've seen several shooting scenarios that seem to push the envelope on this ruling:

Example 1: Offense is shooting a jump shot (i.e., ball still in hand of shooter) and defense attempts to block shot but hits offensive player's arm (below the wrist) without making contact with the ball. Shot is significantly altered and does not have a chance to go in (i.e., airball).

Example 2: Same scenario as above except that shooter has released the ball and defender makes contact with shooter's arm (below the wrist) as shooter is following thru on the shot. Same result occurs (shot is significantly altered, no chance to even get to the basket).

Example 3: Same scenario as #2 except contact is made with the shooter's hand after the ball is released.

What is the ruling in these 3 scenarios?

Thanks.