Multiple Choice
In which subdivision of the thoracic cavity is the heart primarily located?
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1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology
Organization of the Body: Thoracic Cavity
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In the organization of the thoracic cavity, the heart is within the ________.
A
Cranial cavity
B
Pleural cavity
C
Peritoneal cavity
D
Pericardial cavity
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the anatomical divisions of the thoracic cavity. The thoracic cavity is divided into several compartments, including the pleural cavities and the pericardial cavity.
Step 2: Identify the contents of each cavity. The pleural cavities each contain a lung, while the pericardial cavity specifically encloses the heart.
Step 3: Recall that the cranial cavity houses the brain and the peritoneal cavity is part of the abdominal cavity containing digestive organs, so neither contains the heart.
Step 4: Recognize that the heart is located within the pericardial cavity, which is a fluid-filled space that cushions and protects the heart within the mediastinum of the thoracic cavity.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct anatomical term for the cavity containing the heart is the pericardial cavity.
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