In human anatomy, which kidney typically lies lower in the abdominal cavity, and why?

• A. The right kidney, because it is smaller and therefore sinks lower than the left kidney
• B. The right kidney, because the liver occupies space superiorly and displaces it downward
• C. The left kidney, because the stomach pushes it inferiorly
• D. Both kidneys are at the same level, because they are symmetrical on either side of the vertebral column

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the anatomical position of the kidneys in the abdominal cavity. Both kidneys are located retroperitoneally on either side of the vertebral column, but their vertical positions are not exactly symmetrical.
2. Step 2: Consider the organs surrounding each kidney. The right kidney is located just below the liver, which is a large organ occupying much of the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.
3. Step 3: Recognize that the liver's size and position push the right kidney slightly lower compared to the left kidney, which is adjacent to the stomach and spleen but not displaced downward as much.
4. Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options by understanding that the right kidney is not smaller in size to cause it to lie lower, and the stomach does not push the left kidney downward significantly.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the right kidney typically lies lower in the abdominal cavity because the liver occupies space superiorly and displaces it downward.