Which cavities are included in the dorsal cavity?

The dorsal cavity refers to the specific areas located towards the back of the body. It is primarily made up of two main compartments: the cranial cavity and the spinal cavity.

The cranial cavity houses the brain, providing protection and support, while the spinal cavity, also known as the vertebral cavity, contains the spinal cord, which is crucial for transmitting nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Together, these two structures form the dorsal cavity, ensuring the safety and functioning of the central nervous system.

The other options do not correctly represent the composition of the dorsal cavity. For example, the thoracic cavity is part of the ventral cavity, which is located towards the front of the body, and includes structures like the lungs and heart. Additionally, the pelvic and abdominal cavities are also part of the ventral cavity, as they are located in the lower front part of the body. Thus, the inclusion of cranial and spinal in the answer accurately captures the anatomy of the dorsal cavity.