<P> The Latin anatomical name is tunica serosa . Serous membranes line and enclose several body cavities , known as serous cavities , where they secrete a lubricating fluid which reduces friction from muscle movement . Serosa is entirely different from the adventitia , a connective tissue layer which binds together structures rather than reducing friction between them . The serous membrane covering the heart and lining the mediastinum is referred to as the pericardium , the serous membrane lining the thoracic cavity and surrounding the lungs is referred to as the pleura , and that lining the abdominopelvic cavity and the viscera is referred to as the peritoneum . </P>
<P> The Latin anatomical name is tunica serosa . Serous membranes line and enclose several body cavities , known as serous cavities , where they secrete a lubricating fluid which reduces friction from muscle movement . Serosa is entirely different from the adventitia , a connective tissue layer which binds together structures rather than reducing friction between them . The serous membrane covering the heart and lining the mediastinum is referred to as the pericardium , the serous membrane lining the thoracic cavity and surrounding the lungs is referred to as the pleura , and that lining the abdominopelvic cavity and the viscera is referred to as the peritoneum . </P>
two thin membranes surround the lungs . what are these membranes known as
two thin membranes surround the lungs . what are these membranes known as
pleura
pleura