Ventral cavity

Definition

The ventral cavity is a major body cavity located on the anterior (front) aspect of the human body. It includes both the thoracic cavity and abdominopelvic cavity, housing vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and digestive organs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ventral cavity is divided into the thoracic cavity and abdominopelvic cavity.
2. The thoracic cavity contains the lungs and heart which are protected by the rib cage.
3. The diaphragm separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominopelvic cavity.
4. The abdominopelvic cavity houses organs such as the stomach, liver, intestines, and reproductive organs.
5. The ventral cavity is lined with serous membranes that reduce friction between moving organs.

Review Questions

• What two main cavities comprise the ventral cavity?
• Which organ separates the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities?
• What type of membranes line the ventral cavity to reduce friction?

Related terms

dorsal_cavity: A major body cavity located on the posterior (back) aspect of the body, containing the cranial and spinal cavities.

thoracic_cavity: A subdivision of the ventral cavity that houses vital organs like the heart and lungs.

abdominopelvic_cavity: A subdivision of the ventral cavity that includes both abdominal and pelvic regions containing digestive and reproductive organs.