In human anatomy, the right kidney is typically positioned slightly lower than the left kidney primarily because it must accommodate which neighboring organ?

• A. The liver occupies space superiorly on the right side
• B. The heart pushes the right kidney downward through the diaphragm
• C. The stomach occupies space superiorly on the left side
• D. The spleen occupies space inferiorly on the left side

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the anatomical position of the kidneys: both kidneys are located retroperitoneally on either side of the vertebral column, but their vertical positions differ slightly.
2. Recall the major organs adjacent to each kidney: the right kidney lies near the liver, while the left kidney is near the stomach and spleen.
3. Understand that the liver is a large organ situated on the right side of the body, occupying significant space in the upper right abdominal cavity.
4. Recognize that because the liver occupies space superiorly on the right side, it pushes the right kidney slightly lower compared to the left kidney.
5. Conclude that the primary reason the right kidney is positioned lower than the left is due to the liver's presence above it, not because of the heart, stomach, or spleen.