Respiration or breathing is a critical natural phenomenon in the human body that takes place with the help of the respiratory system. The respiratory system is responsible for different respiratory patterns in the body in varying conditions, and even the slightest change in these conditions can cause diseases like COPD, asthma, pulmonary edema, etc. The right and left lungs are critical components of this system besides the pharynx, larynx, trachea, and bronchi. As you can tell by the name, the right lung is on the right side, while the left lung resides on the left of the breastbone.
Let’s tell you all the differences between the right and left lungs in detail.
Comparison Table
| Factors | Right Lung | Left Lung |
| Position | Right Side | Left side |
| Lobes | Three | Two |
| Weight | More | Less |
| Width | More | Less |
| Length | Less | More |
| Accommodates | Liver | Heart |
| Base of the Lung | More concave | Less concave |
| Role of Diaphragm | Differentiates lungs from the liver | Separates the lungs from spleen & stomach |
| Bronchi | Two | One |
| No. of Fissures | Two | One |
| Type of Fissures | Oblique & horizontal | Oblique |
What is the Right Lung?
The right lung is present on the right side of the breastbone and connects to the right bronchus. It comprises three lobes: superior, middle, and inferior. They are also known as the upper, middle, and lower lobes.
There are generally two pathways when coming down from the oral cavity; one that leads to esophagus for digestion, and the other that leads to trachea through the nose. Air particles naturally pass through the pharynx and larynx. The air then enters the right bronchus to supply oxygen to the right lung. The bronchus is further divided into smaller bronchi in the lungs. Liver is also present on the right side, towards the left lung and down the diaphragm.
What is the Left Lung?
The left lung is present on the left side of the breastbone. The left lung has two lobes, contrary to right lung, so it is smaller in size. The two lobes are superior and inferior lobes. An oblique fissure from the coastal side replaces the middle lobe. It extends to the mediastinal surface, appearing above and below it. Moreover, the lingula in the left lung also resembles the middle lobe.
The left lung provides space for the heart in the deep cardiac notch at the anterior end. The left lung is larger than the right lung, but comparatively narrower and is more vulnerable to different respiratory diseases.
Similarities Between Right and Left Lung
- The right and left lungs are the components of the respiratory system in animals.
- They facilitate the exchange of gasses between the blood and the environment.
- Both lungs comprise arteries, veins, capillaries, lymphoid tissue, pleura, epithelium, and connective tissue.
- They give rise to different respiratory patterns in varying conditions.
Differences Between Right and Left Lung
Definition
Right Lung
The right lung resides on the right side of the respiratory system.
Left Lung
While, the left lung is present on the left side of the breast bone in animal anatomy.
Lobes
Right Lung
The right lung has three lobes: superior, middle, and inferior.
Left Lung
On the other hand, the left lung has two lobes: upper and lower. The lingual appears similar to the middle lobe.
Size
Right Lung
The right lung is wider than the left lung.
Left Lung
Contrarily, the width of the left lung is less than the right lung to adjust the heart.
Length
Right Lung
The length of the right lung is 5cm shorter than the left lung to accommodate the liver.
Left Lung
At the same time, the left lung is longer compared to the right lung.
Weight
Right Lung
The right lung is heavier than the left lung, weighing around 700 grams.
Left Lung
While the right lung is heavier, the left lung weighs around 650 grams which is not much different.
Base of the Lung
Right Lung
The right lung has a deep concave on the base of the lung.
Left Lung
However, the left lung has a less deep concave compared to the right lung.
Role of Diaphragm
Right Lung
The diaphragm helps differentiate the base of the lungs from the liver.
Left Lung
Alternatively, the diaphragm separates the lungs from the spleen and stomach.
Bronchi
Right Lung
The right lung has two bronchi.
Left Lung
Whereas, there is only one bronchus in the left lung.
Fissures
Right Lung
The right lung has two fissures: one horizontal and one oblique. They help separate the three lobes from each other.
Left Lung
Conversely, the left lung has only one oblique fissure to distinguish the upper and lower lobe.
The Bottom Line
The right and left lung are vital components of the respiratory system that enable the exchange of oxygen between the body and the environment. The main difference between the right and left lung is their location in the body. They are present on the right and left sides of the breastbone, respectively. The right lung is shorter than the left lung to accommodate the liver. On the other hand, the left lung is narrow as the heart is present underneath it. Both lungs holds significance for different breathing patterns, and any changes in their anatomy or physiology can lead to health concerns. Common respiratory issues include asthma and bronchitis.
FAQs
Is there a difference between left and right lung?
Besides their position in the respiratory system, the left and right lungs also differ in size and weight. The difference in weight and size arises due to the presence of other organs. Moreover, the right lung has three lobes while the left lung has two lobes.
What is so special about the left lung?
The presence of the cardiac notch makes the left lung special. It contains the heart in that space compared to the right lung, which provides space for the liver.
Which lung is more prone to infection right or left?
Antigens and pathogens may affect both lungs. However, studies suggest that the left lung is more susceptible to P. brasiliensis yeast cell infection than the right lung. So, you should make ways and find tips to keep your lungs clean.
Hello, I would like to introduce myself to you! I am Chelsea Rogers, an experienced blog writer for science articles, holding an MPhil degree. My enthusiasm to grab the best knowledge, let it relate to botany, zoology, or any other science branch. Read my articles & let me wait for your words s in the comment section.