Which term refers to horizontal planes that pass through the body and divide it into upper and lower parts?

The term that refers to horizontal planes that pass through the body and divide it into upper and lower parts is "transverse." Transverse planes slice through the body from side to side, creating sections that allow for a clear examination or understanding of the structures located above and below this plane. This is significant in anatomy and medical settings, as understanding how the body is divided can aid in diagnosis, treatment, and surgical planning.

In contrast, sagittal planes divide the body into left and right parts, while coronal planes separate it into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections. Frontal is another term for coronal, emphasizing the same division. Each of these terms describes different orientations and methods of organizing anatomical structures, but the transverse plane specifically addresses the division into upper and lower sections.