Respiration Flashcards
How do the cardiovascular and respiratory systems work together?
They ensure that all our cells get sufficient oxygen, and during exercise, that our muscles get sufficient oxygen to continue exercising.
What are the four processes which provide oxygen to the body and remove carbon dioxide?
Atmosphere to lung exchange.
Oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange in alveoli.
Transportation of gas from blood to cell.
Exchange of gas from blood to cell.
What is the gas exchange process also known as?
External respiration.
What are the four main functions of the respiratory system?
- Gas exchange.
- pH regulation.
- Vocalisation.
- Protecting our body from irritants and pathogens.
What are the main features of the respiratory system?
Nose Pharynx Epiglottis Larynx Trachea Bronchi Bronchioles Alveoli Lungs
What happens as air enters the nose?
Hair, cilia and mucus trap foreign particles.
What is the epiglottis’ function?
To stop food going into the lungs by closing off the trachea when swallowing.
What does the long passage from mouth to alveoli assist in?
Warming and humidifying the air we breathe, and giving our bodies time to get rid of foreign bodies.
What do ciliated epithelial cells and goblet cells do?
Goblet cells secrete mucus and form a watery saline layer. This mucus also helps trap foreign bodies, neutralise pathogens and humidify the air.
The epithelial cells generate a beating motion which drives the mucus toward the throat. (Mucociliary escalator).
What regulates air flow in the bronchioles?
Smooth muscle.
What is found between the alveoli?
80-90% blood vessels for gas exchange.
What makes up one alveolus?
Two types of epithelial cells (alveoli are one cell thick).
What are the function of type 1 cells of an alveolus?
They help with diffusion due to their thinness.
What are the function of type 2 cells of an alveolus?
They produce surfactant which minimises the fluid inside the alveoli helping minimise surface tension to make breathing effortless.
What does surfactant do to water between alveoli?
Breaks the bonds with the water on alveoli lining to reduce pressure.
