hollow space or compartment within the body

* Cranial Cavity * Spinal Cavity

* Thoracic Cavity * Pleural Cavity * Pericardial Cavity * Mediastinum

* Abdominal Cavity * Pelvic Cavity

line the cavities that open to the external environment

lines organs and body cavities

secrete synovial fluid

topmost layer of mucous membranes that face the external environment; can be ciliated

scattered among the surfaces of the epithelial cells that produce mucus

lines the stomach that acts as a protective layer

scattered along the digestive tract that secrete enzymes necessary for digestion

abundant in the small intestine responsible for absorbing nutrients

lines the body cavities

lines the organs

acts as a lubricant between parietal and visceral layer

primary component of both parietal and visceral layer that produces serous fluid

three layers of protective membrane that covers the brain or the spinal cord

outermost layer of the meninges composed of tough fibers and is relatively thick

second layer composed of web-like fibers that provide protective cushion

innermost layer in contact with the brain and spinal cord responsible for delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to the central nervous system