In the anatomical position, the ribs are superficial (or external) to the lungs. This means that the ribs are closer to the surface of the body compared to the lungs, which are located deeper within the thoracic cavity.
in the anatomical position the ribs are _____ to the lungs
3 answers
explain why
In the anatomical position, the body is oriented with the feet planted firmly on the ground, arms at the sides, and palms facing forward. In this orientation, we refer to anatomical directions: superficial means closer to the surface of the body, and deep means farther away from the surface.
The ribs are bony structures that form the ribcage, which protects the organs in the thoracic cavity, including the lungs. Because the ribs encase and support the thorax, they are positioned outside of (or superficial to) the lungs, which lie within this protective cage.
To summarize:
- Ribs: Form the external structure of the thoracic cavity.
- Lungs: Positioned internally within the thoracic cavity.
Thus, in the anatomical position, the ribs are considered superficial in relation to the lungs.