Where is the apex of the lungs located?

• A. Above the clavicle
• B. At the level of the 6th rib
• C. At the diaphragm
• D. At the sternum

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is knowing where the topmost part of the lung sits in relation to surface landmarks. The apex of each lung extends into the neck, with the cervical pleura (the cupula) reaching a bit above the medial end of the clavicle. In other words, the apex is located above the clavicle. The other borders describe lower parts of the lung or structures in front of it: the lower border reaches down to the 6th rib at the midclavicular line (and higher laterally), the diaphragmatic border lies near the diaphragm, and the sternum sits anterior to the lungs, not at the apex.