What does the term 'frontal' refer to in anatomical terms?

The term 'frontal' in anatomical terms refers specifically to dividing the body into front and back sections. This division is facilitated by the frontal or coronal plane, an imaginary line that runs vertically through the body, enabling the separation into anterior (front) and posterior (back) portions. Understanding this terminology is essential in various medical fields, as it helps professionals accurately describe locations and orientations of body parts in relation to one another.

In contrast to the other options, which describe different planes of division, the frontal plane's specific function is central to understanding the anatomy of the human body. For instance, the transverse plane separates the body into upper and lower parts, while the sagittal plane divides it into right and left sides. The last option relates to internal and external structures rather than spatial orientation, further highlighting the importance of recognizing the precise meaning of 'frontal' in anatomy.