Most of the thoracic cavity is occupied by the
A) pleura.
B) diaphragm.
C) lungs.
D) hilum.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The lungs occupy the majority of the thoracic cavity, extending from the base of the diaphragm to the apex of the chest. The pleura (membranes that line the thoracic cavity and cover the lungs) surround and protect the lungs, but do not occupy the majority of the space. The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity, but occupies only the lower portion of the thoracic cavity. The hilum is a region found on the surface of the lung where the bronchi, blood vessels, and nerves enter and exit, but it does not occupy a significant portion of the thoracic cavity.

Most of the Thoracic Cavity Is Occupied by the