What term refers to a plane that divides the body into anterior and posterior sections?

The term that refers to a plane that divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections is known as the frontal plane. This plane, also referred to as the coronal plane, is crucial in anatomy as it creates a vertical division that allows for the assessment and description of structures relative to the front and back of the body. For instance, if you were to imagine cutting the body vertically from ear to ear, this would create an anterior section in front of the plane and a posterior section behind it.

The other terms relate to different types of body divisions. The sagittal plane divides the body into left and right sections, while the transverse plane cuts the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. The midsagittal plane is a specific type of sagittal plane that divides the body into equal left and right halves. Understanding these distinctions helps to navigate human anatomy and facilitates clear communication about anatomical locations and relationships between different body parts.