Which pleura covers the lungs?

• A. Visceral pleura
• B. Parietal pleura
• C. Pericardial pleura
• D. Bronchial pleura

Answer: (A)

The visceral pleura is the correct choice because it is the membrane that directly covers the lungs, providing a protective barrier while allowing for smooth movement during respiration. This membrane is part of the pleural cavity, which also includes the parietal pleura that lines the thoracic cavity. The visceral pleura is firmly attached to the lung surface, facilitating the necessary expansion and contraction of the lungs as they fill with air.

Understanding the distinction between the visceral and parietal pleura is crucial, as the parietal pleura lines the thoracic wall and diaphragm, rather than covering the lungs directly. Other options, such as the pericardial pleura and bronchial pleura, do not exist in common anatomical terms related to the lungs; hence, they do not pertain to the membranes associated with lung protection and function. The clarity of the visceral pleura's role emphasizes its importance in maintaining the function and health of the respiratory system.