Final answer:
The heart is located within the thoracic cavity, between the lungs in the mediastinum, inferior to the diaphragm, and anterior to the sternum. It is surrounded by the pericardial sac and communicates with major blood vessels at its superior surface while its apex aligns slightly to the left due to the cardiac notch.
Step-by-step explanation:
The human heart is strategically situated within the thoracic cavity, medially between the lungs within the space referred to as the mediastinum. This central location ensures that the heart is shielded by the ribcage and lies just inferior to the diaphragm.
The heart is enveloped by a sturdy membrane known as the pericardium, which defines its isolated space called the pericardial cavity. The anterior surface of the heart is positioned deeply to the sternum and costal cartilages, while its dorsal aspect is situated near the vertebral bodies. The cardiac notch is a notable feature on the medial surface of the inferior lobe of the left lung, accommodating the slight deviation of the heart's apex to the left.
The superior surface of the heart or the base is connected to major blood vessels, including the superior and inferior venae cavae, the aorta, and pulmonary trunk. This base aligns roughly with the third costal cartilage, while the apex of the heart points towards the left, lying between the junction of the fourth and fifth ribs near the costal cartilages.
The heart is located inferior to the diaphragm in the mediastinum, lateral to the lungs, and anterior to the sternum.
The mediastinum is the space between the two lungs in the thoracic cavity and is where the heart is situated. The heart is positioned slightly to the left side of the sternum and is protected by the ribcage.