Respiration Part 2

Question 1

1. What is the primary function of the pulmonary system and what secondary function does it serve?

Answer 1

Allows efficient gaseous exchange to take place between the environment and the body
Secondary function- diffusion- movement of molecules from a high to low concentration- the removal of H+ and CO2 from the blood by the HC03- reaction

Question 2

List and discuss the major anatomical components of the respiratory system?

Answer 2

CONDUCTING ZONE-Trachea, Bronchi, Bronchioles, Terminal Bronchioles, Alveolar sacs- DIFFUSION
RESPIRATORY ZONE- within the alveolar sacs for diffusion

Question 3

What muscle groups are involved in ventilation during rest and exercise?

Answer 3

Rest- diaphragm and intercostals- a passive process
Exercise- diaphragm, intercostals, Rectus abdominus and External intercostal muscles, Pectoralis minor, Sternocleidomastoid, Scalene muscles, obliques assist the diaphragm

Question 4

What is the functional significance of a high ventilation- perfusion ratio and how would a high V/Q ratio affect gas exchange?

Answer 4

Ventilation (V) refers to the flow of air into and out of the alveoli. Perfusion (Q) refers to the flow of blood to the alveolar capillaries.
High ratio- top of the lungs and a low one at the bottom, a large V/Q ratio represents a disproportionally high ventilation relative to blood flow -decrease the effectiveness of gas exchange.

Question 5

Discuss the modes of transportation for CO2 within the blood?

Answer 5

10% dissolved within blood plasma
20% bound to Hb to form carbaminohaemoglobin
70% transported as bicarbonate ion (HC03-)

Question 6

Explain how CO2 is transported in the blood via the Bicarbonate Reaction?

Answer 6

1. C02 and H20 combine
2. The catalyst enzyme carbonic anhydrase
3. Creates carbonic acid H2C03
   4.Carbonic acid disassociates
4. Forms Hydrogen and Bicarbonate ion
   (H+, HC03-)
5. Chloride switch