The lung cavity is called the chest cavity, thoracic cavity, or pleural cavity.
The chest (thoracic or pleural) cavity is a space enclosed by the spine, ribs, and sternum (breast bone), separated from the abdomen by the diaphragm. According to the reference, this cavity contains vital organs including the heart, the thoracic aorta, the lungs, and the esophagus (swallowing passage).
Key Components of the Chest Cavity:
- Spine, Ribs, and Sternum: These bones form the protective structure around the chest cavity.
- Diaphragm: This muscle separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity.
- Heart: The central organ of the circulatory system.
- Thoracic Aorta: The main artery carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
- Lungs: The organs responsible for gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide).
- Esophagus: The passage for swallowing food.
In summary, the terms chest cavity, thoracic cavity, and pleural cavity can all be used to refer to the space housing the lungs.
