THE INTERNAL STRUCTURES IN THE CHEST CAVITY The following structures are found in the chest cavity of the body:
the heart
the trachea
a pair of lungs
the oesophagus
large veins and arteries
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The heart is a muscular organ which maintains the circulation of blood in an animal's body. It occupies a medial position in the chest. Large veins and arteries attached to the heart can also be found in the chest. They transport blood continuously to and from the heart.
The lungs are a pair of pinkish coloured organs which contain air sacs. They are the organs of breathing. The lungs are positioned lateral to the heart, one being on each side of it. Lungs are spongy to the touch.
The trachea (windpipe) and the oesophagus (gullet) are positioned, side by side, from the mouth to the chest. The trachea connects the nostrils to the bronchia which are attached to the lungs. This tube is kept open by rings of cartilage, so that a continuous flow of air is maintained.
The oesophagus passes from the mouth through the diaphragm to the stomach. Its main function is to transport ingested food and water to the stomach.
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