Which lung is smaller and how many lobes does it have?

The left lung is indeed smaller than the right lung, and it has two lobes. This is primarily due to the presence of the heart, which is situated slightly to the left side of the thoracic cavity, necessitating that the left lung be smaller to accommodate it.

The left lung consists of two lobes: the upper lobe and the lower lobe. In contrast, the right lung is larger and is divided into three lobes: the upper, middle, and lower lobes. This anatomical difference between the two lungs is significant in the context of respiratory function and clinical considerations, such as when performing procedures like lobectomies or understanding lung diseases that may affect one lung differently than the other.

Additionally, the configuration of the lungs reflects their respective roles in gas exchange and their adaptability to the space within the thoracic cavity. Understanding these anatomical features is essential for students in mortuary science, particularly in the context of preparing bodies for viewing and understanding the effects of various diseases on the respiratory system.