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: Body Cavities

Anatomy & Physiology

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Organization of the Body: Body Cavities

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2:05 minutes

Problem 17

Textbook Question

Which of the following relationships is incorrect?
a. Visceral peritoneum/outer surface of small intestine
b. Parietal pericardium/outer surface of heart
c. Parietal pleura/wall of thoracic cavity

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by understanding the terminology used in the problem. The terms 'visceral' and 'parietal' refer to layers of serous membranes. 'Visceral' refers to the layer that directly covers an organ, while 'parietal' refers to the layer that lines the cavity in which the organ resides.

Step 2: Analyze the first relationship: 'visceral peritoneum/outer surface of small intestine.' The peritoneum is the serous membrane associated with the abdominal cavity. The visceral peritoneum covers the outer surface of organs within the abdominal cavity, including the small intestine. This relationship is correct.

Step 3: Analyze the second relationship: 'parietal pericardium/outer surface of heart.' The pericardium is the serous membrane associated with the heart. The parietal pericardium lines the cavity surrounding the heart, not the outer surface of the heart itself. The outer surface of the heart is covered by the visceral pericardium (also called the epicardium). This relationship is incorrect.

Step 4: Analyze the third relationship: 'parietal pleura/wall of thoracic cavity.' The pleura is the serous membrane associated with the lungs. The parietal pleura lines the walls of the thoracic cavity, which is correct.

Step 5: Conclude that the incorrect relationship is 'parietal pericardium/outer surface of heart,' as the parietal pericardium does not cover the heart directly but lines the cavity around it.

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Key Concepts

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

Visceral and Parietal Membranes

Visceral and parietal membranes are two types of serous membranes that line body cavities and cover organs. The visceral membrane adheres directly to the organ's surface, while the parietal membrane lines the cavity wall. Understanding the distinction between these two types is crucial for identifying anatomical relationships correctly.

Peritoneum, Pericardium, and Pleura

The peritoneum, pericardium, and pleura are specific serous membranes associated with different body cavities. The peritoneum surrounds the abdominal organs, the pericardium encloses the heart, and the pleura lines the thoracic cavity and covers the lungs. Recognizing which membrane corresponds to which organ or cavity is essential for answering questions about their relationships.

Anatomical Relationships

Anatomical relationships refer to the spatial and functional connections between different structures in the body. Understanding these relationships helps in identifying correct pairings, such as which membrane covers which organ. This knowledge is fundamental in anatomy, especially when evaluating statements about organ and membrane associations.

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