Final answer:
The average adult has two lungs, with the right lung consisting of three lobes and the left lung having two lobes. Each lobe is divided into several bronchopulmonary segments, typically 10 in the right and 8-9 in the left.
Step-by-step explanation:
The average adult has two lungs: the right lung and the left lung. The right lung is made up of three lobes: the superior, middle, and inferior lobes, while the left lung has two lobes: the superior and inferior lobes. Each lobe is further divided into bronchopulmonary segments, with each segment receiving air from its own tertiary bronchus and blood from its own artery. These segments can sometimes be surgically removed if diseased, without significantly affecting the neighboring segments.
Although the exact number of segments can vary amongst individuals, typically the right lung has around 10 segments and the left lung has 8-9 segments. This variability is due to the fact that the left lung is smaller to accommodate the heart. Understanding the anatomy and distribution of lobes and segments is crucial for medical professionals, especially when dealing with pulmonary diseases and surgeries.