2.1 Human Respiratory System Flashcards
What is the respiratory system?
The respiratory system is a system that involves the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide gases in the lungs.
What is the function of the nasal cavity?
It moisturizes air and traps dust with fine hairs and moist tissue.
What is the structure of the trachea?
- Outer wall: Cartilage rings
- Inner wall: Epithelial cells with cilia and mucus-secreting cells
What is the function of the trachea?
- Cartilage rings prevent the trachea from collapsing.
- Cilia and mucus trap dust and microorganisms.
What is the bronchus?
Two branches of the trachea that lead to the lungs.
What is the function of the bronchus?
It directs air into the left and right lungs.
What are the lungs made of?
- Soft, sponge-like tissue
- Rich in blood vessels and alveoli
What happens in the lungs?
Gas exchange (oxygen in, carbon dioxide out).
What is the function of the rib cage?
It protects the lungs.
What is the diaphragm?
A dome-shaped muscle when at rest.
What is the function of the diaphragm?
It separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity.
What are intercostal muscles?
Muscle tissue between two ribs, also known as skeletal muscle.
What is the function of intercostal muscles?
They move the ribs during breathing.
What happens to the air around us when we inhale?
The air enters the body through the nose and mouth.
What happens to our ribcage when we inhale?
The ribcage moves up & out to make space for the lungs.
What happens to the thoracic cavity when we inhale?
The thoracic cavity enlarges, allowing the lungs to expand.
What happens to the diaphragm when we inhale?
The diaphragm moves downwards to create more space for air.
What happens to the air in our body when we exhale?
The air is pushed out of the body through the nose and mouth.
What happens to the ribcage when we exhale?
The ribcage moves down & in, reducing lung space.
What happens to the thoracic cavity when we exhale?
The thoracic cavity shrinks, forcing air out.
What happens to the diaphragm when we exhale?
The diaphragm curves upwards, pushing air out of the lungs.
Inhalation: Intercostal Muscles
The outer intercostal muscles contract to lift the ribs.
Inhalation: Rib Movement
The ribs move up & out, expanding the chest.
Inhalation: Diaphragm
The diaphragm shrinks & flattens, creating space.
