The chest, or thorax, is the area of the body between the neck and the abdomen. It houses vital organs, including the heart and lungs, which are protected by the rib cage. The rib cage consists of 12 pairs of ribs that attach to the spine and curve around to the front, providing structural support and protection. In addition to the organs, the chest contains important blood vessels, such as the aorta and pulmonary arteries. The diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle at the base of the chest, plays a crucial role in breathing by contracting and relaxing to help draw air into the lungs.