Mechanics of Breathing

Question 1

Describe the role of the pleural membranes

Answer 1

Parietal layer is fixed to the chest wall

Visceral layer adheres to the lungs

The fluid between them makes them adhere to each other

Question 2

Air Passages to alveoli

Answer 2

• Nose
• Pharynx (Nasopharynx, Oropharynx, Laryngopharynx)
• Larynx
• Trachea
• Bronchi
• Bronchioles
  -Terminal Bronchioles (to alveoli)

Question 3

Tidal volume

Answer 3

the amount of air that moves in/out of the lungs with each respiratory cycle

Question 4

Lung compliance

Answer 4

ease at which the lungs and thorax expand on inspiration

Question 5

Lung recoil

Answer 5

ease at which lungs and throat return to resting position on expiration

Question 6

Describe airway resistance and state factors which can increase this

Answer 6

Airway resistance is the resistance to air flow in the respiratory passageways, it is caused by friction between the air and the air passages, obstructing the airways and/or reducing the diameter of the airways increases resistance.

Question 7

Define factors which make Work of Breathing ‘Easier’ and ‘Difficult’, including the terms: SURFACE TENSION

Answer 7

Surface tension in the alveoli, a thin watery liquid film lines the surface of alveoli and exerts a force