In terms of size, how does the right ventricle compare to the left ventricle?

In terms of size, how does the right ventricle compare to the left ventricle?

• A. It is larger
• B. It is smaller
• C. They are the same size
• D. It is wider but shorter

Answer: (B)

The right ventricle is generally smaller than the left ventricle in terms of muscle mass and wall thickness. This difference in size is primarily due to the distinct functions of the two ventricles. The left ventricle is responsible for pumping oxygenated blood throughout the entire body, which requires it to generate higher pressure and thus be more muscular and thicker. Conversely, the right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs for gas exchange, which occurs at a lower pressure and therefore doesn't necessitate a larger muscular structure. As a result, the left ventricle is typically larger in both size and strength compared to the right ventricle.

The right ventricle is generally smaller than the left ventricle in terms of muscle mass and wall thickness. This difference in size is primarily due to the distinct functions of the two ventricles. The left ventricle is responsible for pumping oxygenated blood throughout the entire body, which requires it to generate higher pressure and thus be more muscular and thicker. Conversely, the right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs for gas exchange, which occurs at a lower pressure and therefore doesn't necessitate a larger muscular structure. As a result, the left ventricle is typically larger in both size and strength compared to the right ventricle.