What role does the parietal pleura play in respiration?

The parietal pleura plays a crucial role in respiration by lining the thoracic cavity. This serous membrane covers the inner surface of the chest wall and the diaphragm, creating a protective barrier for the lungs. By lining the thoracic cavity, it forms a space where the lungs can expand and contract with each breath. The interaction between the parietal pleura and the visceral pleura (which covers the lungs) provides the necessary pressure gradient for lung inflation and deflation during the respiratory cycle. This arrangement is vital for effective gas exchange, as it allows the lungs to move smoothly within the thoracic cavity without friction.

In addition to just lining the thoracic cavity, the relationship between the parietal pleura and the lungs is fundamental for maintaining a functional respiratory system, making it integral to the overall process of respiration.