The heart is located in the thoracic cavity, specifically in the mediastinum. When considering its position relative to the sternum, the heart is posterior to the sternum. This means that the heart lies behind the sternum.
Here’s a brief explanation of the terms:
- Superficial: Closer to the surface of the body. The heart is not superficial to the sternum.
- Posterior: Toward the back of the body. The heart is posterior to the sternum.
- Superior: Above or higher in position. The heart is not superior to the sternum.
- Proximal: Closer to the point of attachment or origin. The heart is not proximal to the sternum.
Therefore, the correct answer is b) posterior.