Final answer:
To examine the ventral surface of the heart, one would look at the anterior or front aspect of the body, as the ventral surface refers to the front of the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you were asked to examine the ventral surface of the heart, you would look at the surface facing the front of the body. The ventral surface refers to the anterior or frontal aspect of the heart. Based on the anatomical position within the thoracic cavity, the human heart's ventral surface sits deep to the sternum and costal cartilages.
The human heart is positioned medially between the lungs within the mediastinum, encased in the pericardial cavity. The apex of the heart is located slightly to the left of the sternum and points downwards. When observing any anterior or frontal views, such as in coronary circulation diagrams (Figure 19.15), one is essentially looking at the ventral aspect of the heart. Moreover, when placing a stethoscope on the chest to listen to heart sounds, it is the ventral side of the heart that is often presented towards the front and is assessed.