What is the name of the lining that covers the thoracic cavity and lungs?

The pleura is the correct answer as it specifically refers to the double-layered membrane that envelops the lungs and lines the thoracic cavity. This structure consists of two layers: the visceral pleura, which directly covers the lungs, and the parietal pleura, which lines the chest wall. The pleura plays a crucial role in facilitating lung movement during respiration by providing a slippery surface that reduces friction between the lung surfaces and the thoracic wall during breathing. Additionally, the pleural cavity between these two layers contains pleural fluid, which further aids in this movement and acts as a lubricant.

Other terms in the choices refer to different body cavities and structures. The pericardium is a fibrous sac that surrounds the heart, providing protection and a lubricated space for heart movement. The peritoneum is the lining of the abdominal cavity, covering abdominal organs, while the endocardium is the inner lining of the heart chambers. Each of these plays important roles in their respective regions, but they do not pertain to the thoracic cavity or lungs like the pleura does.