HOSA Anatomy and Physiology Assessment Practice Test

The condition characterized by the presence of the cranial and vertebral cavities is indeed the posterior or dorsal cavity. This cavity encompasses both the cranial cavity, which houses the brain, and the vertebral cavity, which contains the spinal cord. Together, these cavities are part of the larger dorsal body cavity, which is responsible for protecting vital components of the central nervous system.

The cranial cavity is formed by the skull and provides a secure environment for the brain, while the vertebral cavity is formed by the vertebral column and contains the spinal cord, linking the brain to the rest of the body. The presence of both these structures within the dorsal cavity showcases its role in safeguarding important neural structures. Other options such as the anterior or ventral cavity, thoracic cavity, and abdominal cavity serve different functions and house different organs, but they do not include both the cranial and vertebral cavities as part of their structure.