Final answer:
The term for the posterior surface of the body is 'dorsal.' It refers to the back or direction toward the back, contrasting with 'ventral,' which is the front.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that refers to the posterior surface of the body is d) dorsal. The posterior, or dorsal, side of the body is the back or direction toward the back of the body. When comparing the given terms, a) caudal refers to a position lower than another part of the body or towards the tail, b) ventral refers to the front or direction toward the front of the body, d) prone describes a body lying face down, and as mentioned, c) dorsal refers to the back side of the body. The dorsal cavity or posterior cavity is a body cavity that houses the brain and spinal cord, emphasizing the association between 'dorsal' and the posterior aspect of the body.