Neural and Chemical control of breathing Flashcards
What is the medulla oblongata responsible for?
The medulla oblongata is located in the middle of the brain and is responsible for involuntary functions; breathing, sneezing and heart rate etc.
How is respiration controlled by the medulla oblongata?
Inspiration and Expiration are controlled by neurones and these neurones are located within two areas of the medulla oblongata.
What neurones control respiration.
Respiration is controlled by two specialised neurones. Inspiration is controlled by the Dorsal Respiratory Group (DRG) and expiration occurs passively but when under physical activity expiration is controlled by the Ventral Respiratory Group (VRG).
Where are the respiratory chemoreceptors located.
The chemoreceptors that control respiration are located in the medulla, aortic arch and the carotid arteries.
How do chemoreceptors control respiration?
The chemoreceptors detect chemical fluctuations within the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels and the blood acidity. They send signals to the medulla to change the breathing rate to cater to these changes.
What is vital capacity?
Vital capacity is the maximum amount you can breathe out after inhaled as much air as possible. (80% of total lung capacity.)
What is Residual Volume?
Residual Volume is the air left after you have exhaled as hard as possible. (20% of total lung capacity.)
Why do the lungs need Residual Volume?
Residual Volume remains in the lungs to prevent the organ from collapsing on itself.
What is tidal volume?
Tidal volume is the amount of air inhaled during each breath.
