Open Question
The heart is surrounded by the (a) pleural cavity, (b) peritoneal cavity, (c) abdominopelvic cavity, (d) mediastinum, (e) abdominal cavity.
1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology
Organization of the Body: Thoracic Cavity
Struggling with Anatomy & Physiology?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which term describes a structure that is directly superficial to the heart?
A
Thoracic
B
Pericardium
C
Mediastinum
D
Pleural cavity
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the anatomical position of the heart within the thoracic cavity. The heart is located in the mediastinum, which is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity.
Identify the layers surrounding the heart. The heart is enclosed by a double-walled sac called the pericardium.
Differentiate between the terms provided: 'Thoracic' refers to the chest region, 'Mediastinum' is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity, 'Pleural cavity' surrounds the lungs, and 'Pericardium' is the membrane enclosing the heart.
Recognize that the term 'superficial' refers to a position closer to the surface of the body. In this context, it means the structure that is directly covering the heart.
Conclude that the 'Pericardium' is the structure directly superficial to the heart, as it is the membrane that encloses and protects the heart.
2:51mWatch next
Master Organization of the Thoracic Cavity with a bite sized video explanation from Bruce Bryan
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Organization of the Body: Thoracic Cavity practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations