The costal surface of the lung borders the ribs. The apex of the lung is the superior region, whereas the base is the opposite region near the diaphragm. The cardiac notch is an indentation on the surface of the left lung, and it allows space for the heart (Figure 1).

The right lung is shorter and wider than the left lung, and the left lung occupies a smaller volume than the right. The lungs are enclosed by the pleurae, which are attached to the mediastinum. The diaphragm is the flat, dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the lungs and thoracic cavity. The lungs are pyramid-shaped, paired organs that are connected to the trachea by the right and left bronchi on the inferior surface, the lungs are bordered by the diaphragm. To this end, the lungs exchange respiratory gases across a very large epithelial surface area-about 70 square meters-that is highly permeable to gases. The main function of the lungs is to perform the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide with air from the atmosphere.

Describe the pleura of the lungs and their functionĪ major organ of the respiratory system, each lung houses structures of both the conducting and respiratory zones.

Outline the anatomy of the blood supply to the lungs.

Summarize the blood flow pattern associated with the lungs.

Describe the overall function of the lung.

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

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