The thorax is the part of the body located between the neck and the abdomen. It is commonly referred to as the chest and houses vital organs such as the heart and lungs. The thorax is protected by the rib cage, which consists of ribs, the sternum, and the thoracic vertebrae. In humans and many animals, the thorax plays a crucial role in respiration. The diaphragm, a muscle located at the base of the thorax, helps in breathing by contracting and relaxing to allow air to flow in and out of the lungs. The thorax also contains major blood vessels, including the aorta and pulmonary arteries.