1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 40m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 37m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 7m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood1h 22m
18. The Heart1h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance Coming soon
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity Coming soon

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Organization of the Body: Thoracic Cavity

Anatomy & Physiology

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Organization of the Body: Thoracic Cavity

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Problem 5

Textbook Question

The heart is surrounded by the (a) pleural cavity, (b) peritoneal cavity, (c) abdominopelvic cavity, (d) mediastinum, (e) abdominal cavity.

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the location of the heart within the thoracic cavity.

Understand that the thoracic cavity is divided into several smaller cavities.

Recognize that the pleural cavities contain the lungs.

Note that the peritoneal cavity is associated with the abdominal organs.

Determine that the mediastinum is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity where the heart is located.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Anatomical Cavities

Anatomical cavities are spaces within the body that house organs and structures. The major cavities include the thoracic cavity, which contains the heart and lungs, and the abdominopelvic cavity, which houses digestive organs. Understanding these cavities is essential for identifying the location of organs and their relationships to one another.

Mediastinum

The mediastinum is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity, located between the lungs. It contains vital structures such as the heart, trachea, esophagus, and major blood vessels. Recognizing the mediastinum's role is crucial for understanding the anatomical positioning of the heart and its surrounding structures.

Pleural Cavity

The pleural cavity is the space between the two pleurae (membranes) surrounding the lungs. It plays a significant role in respiratory mechanics by allowing the lungs to expand and contract during breathing. While it is closely associated with the thoracic cavity, it does not directly surround the heart, which is located in the mediastinum.