Question
The pleural membrane has two main functions. One function is the keep an air tight seal within the thoracic cavity and another is to secrete slippery fluid into the space around the lungs and thus reducing friction during breathing movements. The serous membrane on top of the diaphragm is only one of the membranes secreting slippery fluid into the thoracic cavity. The lungs also have a serous membrane to secrete a slippery fluid. For this reason the two membranes are given specific names. The membranes that line the body cavities are called parietal membranes while the membranes on the organ itself are called visceral membranes. Examine the lungs on the cadaver. Is this visceral pleural membrane directly attached to the lungs or does it loosely fit around the lungs?
Ask by Mathis Kelley. in the United States
Jan 22,2025
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Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
The visceral pleural membrane is directly attached to the lungs, closely following their shape to reduce friction during breathing.
Solution
The visceral pleural membrane is directly attached to the lungs. It is a type of serous membrane that closely adheres to the surface of the lungs, following their contours and providing a protective layer. This attachment allows the visceral pleura to effectively secrete the slippery fluid that reduces friction during breathing movements. In contrast, the parietal pleura lines the thoracic cavity and is not directly attached to the lungs, allowing for the necessary movement and expansion of the lungs during respiration. Therefore, the visceral pleural membrane does not loosely fit around the lungs; it is firmly attached to them.
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