Final answer:
The left kidney lies medial and inferior to the spleen within the abdominal cavity, adjacent to the spine and protected by the retroperitoneal space.
Step-by-step explanation:
The left kidney and the spleen are both located within the abdominal cavity. The spleen is situated in the upper left part of the abdomen and attached to the lateral border of the stomach via the gastrosplenic ligament. It acts as a filter for the blood, with a role in the immune response to blood-borne pathogens.On the other hand, the left kidney is located at about the T12 to L3 vertebrae, slightly higher than the right kidney due to the presence of the liver on the right side. The left kidney lies medial and inferior to the spleen, with the organ being protected posteriorly by muscle, adipose tissue, and ribs. Both organs are well vascularized and play crucial but distinct roles in bodily functions.In summary, the left kidney lies medial and inferior to the spleen, close to the spine and behind the stomach, in a protected position within the retroperitoneal space of the abdomen.