Anatomical Terminology - Membranes of the Anterior (Ventral) Body Cavity Flashcards
1
Q
What is a serous (serosa) membrane?
A
One of the thin membranes that cover the walls and organs in the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities
2
Q
What is the pleura?
A
The serous membrane that encloses the pleural cavity (surrounds the lungs)
3
Q
What is the pericardium?
A
The serous membrane that encloses the pericardial cavity (surrounds the heart)
4
Q
What is the peritoneum?
A
The serous membrane that encloses the peritoneal cavity (surrounds many organs in the abdominopelvic cavity)
5
Q
What do the serous membranes do?
A
They form fluid-filled sacs, or cavities meant to cushion and reduce friction on internal organs when they move
ex. when lungs inflate or the heart beats
