Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which structure doubles back to form the parietal pleural membrane?
A
Visceral pleura
B
Pericardium
C
Peritoneum
D
Diaphragm
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the anatomy of the pleural membranes: The pleura is a double-layered membrane that surrounds the lungs. It consists of two layers: the visceral pleura (which directly covers the lungs) and the parietal pleura (which lines the thoracic cavity).
Clarify the relationship between the visceral and parietal pleura: The visceral pleura folds back on itself to form the parietal pleura, creating a continuous structure. This folding is essential for the pleural cavity to function properly.
Eliminate incorrect options based on anatomical location: The pericardium surrounds the heart, the peritoneum lines the abdominal cavity, and the diaphragm is a muscle involved in respiration. None of these structures are directly involved in forming the pleural membrane.
Focus on the visceral pleura: The visceral pleura is the correct structure that doubles back to form the parietal pleura. This folding creates the pleural cavity, which contains a small amount of fluid to reduce friction during lung movement.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the anatomical function and location, the visceral pleura is the structure that forms the parietal pleura by folding back on itself.