When looking at the body from the side, which plane would provide a cross-section of the body?

The transverse plane is defined as a horizontal cut that divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) portions. When viewing the body from the side, a transverse section allows for a cross-sectional view, providing insight into the internal structures at that particular level of the body. This plane is essential for imaging techniques and anatomical studies, as it offers a clear perspective of the organization of various organs and tissues that lie at different heights within the body.

In contrast, the sagittal and median planes are vertical cuts that divide the body into left and right portions, while the frontal (or coronal) plane separates the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections. Although these planes are important in anatomical orientation and imaging, they do not create the cross-sectional view that the transverse plane does.