Which lung is typically shorter and wider in structure?

The right lung is typically shorter and wider than the left lung due to the anatomical positioning of the heart and major blood vessels. The left lung is slightly more elongated and narrower to accommodate the heart's location, which tilts towards the left side of the thoracic cavity.

As a result, the right lung has three lobes—superior, middle, and inferior—while the left lung has only two lobes (superior and inferior). This structural difference contributes to the right lung being larger in volume overall, allowing for a greater capacity for air intake. The configuration of the lungs reflects a balance between accommodating space for the heart and maintaining optimal pulmonary function.