Intro Flashcards
What is the respiratory system divided into?
The upper and the lower respiratory tract
What is in the upper respiratory tract?
The nasal cavity, mouth, pharynx, larynx above vocal folds.
What is the purpose of the upper respiratory tract?
To condition inspired air before it reaches the lungs
What happens to air in the upper respiratory tract?
It is warmed, humidified and filtered
What is in the lower respiratory tract?
The larynx (below the vocal folds), trachea, bronchi, bronchioles and lungs.
What is the function of the lower respiratory tract?
Gas exchange and some further removal of particulates
What are the lungs comprised of?
The bronchioles, alveolar ducts, alveolar sacs and alveoli.
Where does the control of breathing occur?
Respiratory centres in the lower part of the brain stem called medulla oblongata
When are inspiratory neurones active?
During inspiration, inactive during expiration.
When are expiratory neurones active?
During expiration, inactive during inspiration.
What can modify the automatic rhythm of breathing (maintained by inspiratory and expiratory neurones)?
Chemoreceptors, the brain, and receptors in the lungs.
