2007-08-26 14:26:17 · 3 answers · asked by Chelsea E 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
It's called the pericardium. Its function is to protect the heart, anchor it in place, and lubricate its pumping motion.
2007-08-26 14:44:23 · answer #1 · answered by skeptik 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is the pericardium and it is formed by a fibrous and serous membrane (serous membrane composed of two layers visceral and parietal layer the pericardial cavity lies in between them) ,it surrounds the heart and the proximal part of its great vessels.
It separates the heart from the thorax and inside the pericardial cavity is a clear fluid (5-30ml) that lubricates the heart and allows it to contract with minimal friction.
2007-08-26 23:55:14 · answer #2 · answered by **m^ 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is the pericardium. But the function of it nowadays seems to be doubtful: after open heart surgery and such, the fluid whether is there afterwards is doubtful. Hence the presence of pericardium: as long it is intact, it is alright. But afterwards........?
2007-08-27 05:37:22 · answer #3 · answered by straightener 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋