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Torso

life science Maturity 11-13 Next article →

The torso is the main part of many animals. People also call it the trunk or the core. It is the center of the body. Your head, neck, and tail grow from it. Your arms and legs also grow from the torso. This part of the body is very important. It holds many parts that keep you alive.

Surface projections of the organs of the trunk
Surface projections of the organs of the trunk

You can divide the torso into different sections. The upper part is called the chest or thorax. Your arms grow from this thoracic region. The middle part is the abdomen or midriff. The bottom part is the pelvis and perineum. These three parts are sometimes called the lower torso. Your legs grow from this lower section. The back is also part of the torso.

Surface projections of the organs of the trunk
Surface projections of the organs of the trunk

Most vital organs live inside the torso. In the chest, the rib cage protects the heart and lungs. The abdomen holds organs that help with digestion. The stomach uses acid to break down food. The liver makes bile to help digestion. The small and large intestines take nutrients from food. The gallbladder stores that bile. The rectum and anus help move waste out.

Surface projections of the organs of the trunk
Surface projections of the organs of the trunk

The torso also handles other important jobs. The kidneys make urine to clean the body. The ureters carry urine to the bladder. The bladder stores the liquid until it leaves through the urethra. In males, the urethra also passes sperm. The pelvic region holds reproductive organs for both males and females. Many muscle groups live here too. These include the pectoral and abdominal muscles.

Surface projections of the organs of the trunk
Surface projections of the organs of the trunk

Nerves help the torso work and feel. Many nerves start in the spinal cord. They come from the thoracic and lumbar parts. Some organs also use the vagus nerve. These nerves help the muscles and organs. Other nerves help you feel things on your skin. These are called the lateral and dorsal cutaneous branches. This system keeps the whole torso connected.

Surface projections of the organs of the trunk
Surface projections of the organs of the trunk
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File:Surface projections of the organs of the trunk.png
Surface projections of the organs of the trunk.png
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