Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Organization of the Body: Thoracic Cavity

Anatomy & Physiology

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Organization of the Body: Thoracic Cavity

Previous problemNext problem

Problem 7

Textbook Question

More than one choice may apply.
The base of the heart is its _______surface.
a. Diaphragmatic
b. Superior
c. Anterior
d. Inferior

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the anatomical orientation of the heart: The heart has several surfaces, including the diaphragmatic (inferior), anterior, posterior, and superior surfaces. The base of the heart refers to the part opposite the apex and is primarily formed by the atria, especially the left atrium.

Analyze the term 'base of the heart': The base is located at the superior aspect of the heart and is where the great vessels (aorta, pulmonary arteries, and veins) emerge. It is not the diaphragmatic or inferior surface.

Evaluate the options: The diaphragmatic surface refers to the part of the heart that rests on the diaphragm, which is the inferior surface. The anterior surface is the front-facing part of the heart. The superior surface is where the base is located.

Eliminate incorrect choices: Since the base of the heart is superior and not diaphragmatic, anterior, or inferior, you can rule out options a, c, and d.

Select the correct answer(s): Based on the anatomical description, the base of the heart corresponds to the superior surface. Therefore, the correct choice is 'b. superior.'

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Anatomy of the Heart

The heart is a muscular organ with distinct surfaces and orientations. Its base refers to the upper part where the major blood vessels enter and exit, primarily facing upward and backward. Understanding the anatomical positioning of the heart is crucial for identifying its various surfaces.

Heart Surfaces

The heart has several surfaces, including the anterior (front), posterior (back), inferior (bottom), and base (top). The base is specifically associated with the atria and is oriented towards the right shoulder, contrasting with the diaphragmatic surface, which faces downward towards the diaphragm.

Orientation in Cardiac Anatomy

In cardiac anatomy, orientation is vital for understanding the heart's position within the thoracic cavity. The terms 'superior' and 'inferior' describe vertical positioning, while 'anterior' and 'posterior' describe horizontal positioning. Recognizing these orientations helps in accurately identifying the heart's surfaces and their respective functions.