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Multiple Choice
Which of the following structures is NOT located within the thoracic cavity?
A
Esophagus
B
Heart
C
Lungs
D
Liver
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the anatomical boundaries of the thoracic cavity. The thoracic cavity is the space enclosed by the rib cage, sternum, and thoracic vertebrae, and it is separated from the abdominal cavity by the diaphragm.
Step 2: Identify the major organs located within the thoracic cavity. These include the heart (within the mediastinum), lungs (within the pleural cavities), and esophagus (passing through the mediastinum).
Step 3: Recognize that the liver is not located within the thoracic cavity. The liver is a large organ situated in the abdominal cavity, primarily in the upper right quadrant, below the diaphragm.
Step 4: Compare the locations of the listed structures. The esophagus, heart, and lungs are all within the thoracic cavity, while the liver is located in the abdominal cavity.
Step 5: Conclude that the liver is the correct answer because it is not anatomically located within the thoracic cavity.