Mechanics of Breathing Flashcards
1
Q
What is the movement of air?
A
Air moves from an area of high pressure to an area of low pressure
2
Q
What are three factors that affect the rate of airway airflow and ease of breathing?
A
- Surface tension in the alveoli
- Compliance of the lungs
- Airway resistance
3
Q
What happens during normal inspiration?
A
The diaphragm and external intercostal muscles contract
4
Q
What happens during normal exspiration?
A
Inspiration muscles relax, causing chest and lungs to recoil
5
Q
Define lung compliance?
A
Lung compliance is the ease with which the lungs and thoracic wall can be expanded
6
Q
Define lung recoil?
A
Elastic recoil is the tendency of the lungs to return to the resting state after inspiration
7
Q
What is airway resistance?
A
Airway resistance is the resistance to airflow in the respiratory passageways.
