Final answer:
The parietal peritoneum is a portion of the largest serous membrane in the body that lines the abdominal wall. It acts as a lubricant to minimize friction between the serosal surfaces of the peritoneum.
Step-by-step explanation:
A serous membrane is a thin membrane that covers the walls and organs in body cavities. The parietal layer of the peritoneum lines the abdominal wall, while the visceral layer covers the abdominal organs.
Between the parietal and visceral layers of the peritoneum is a fluid-filled space called the peritoneal cavity. This cavity contains a few milliliters of watery fluid that acts as a lubricant to minimize friction between the serosal surfaces of the peritoneum.
The peritoneum plays a vital role in holding the digestive organs in place within the abdominal cavity. It provides protection to the abdominal organs by reducing friction that could lead to inflammation. Therefore the peritoneum holds the digestive organs in place within the abdominal cavity.