Respiratory System Flashcards
Function of larynx
Holds the vocal chords, used for breathing (trachea), talking and swallowing (oesophagus)
Function of trachea
Windpipe - allows inhaled air to travel into the lungs. it connects the larynx with the bronchi. it is supported by rings of cartilage.
Function of alveoli
Air sacs at the end of the bronchioles, where gaseous exchange takes place. oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide is released from the blood
Function of diaphragm
Muscle that separates the thorax from the abdomen, and allows the lungs to move.
Function of the intercostal muscles
Muscles found between the ribs that work with the diaphragm to allow the rib cage to change in volume
Function of the pleural membrane
2 layers that are thin and slippery and allow the lungs to move easily during ventilation
Function of the bronchus
Main passageway to the lungs
Function of the ribs
Moveable cage that encloses and protects the lungs
Function of the lungs
Cone shaped organ that sit in the chest cavity, where ventilation occurs
Function of the bronchiole
Transfers air from the bronchus to the alveoli. they have muscular walls.
Function of the cilia
Tiny hairs that line the passages (trachea, bronchus, bronchioles). Mucus is produced to trap dirt, dust and pathogens. They then move the mucus towards the throat to be swallowed.
Inhalation
Intercostal muscles and diaphragm contract. the diaphragm flattens and the ribcage and sternum move up and out. the volume of the thorax increases in size and the pressure decreases. air is forced into the lungs
Exhalation
Intercostal muscles and the diaphragm relax. the ribcage and sternum move down and in. the volume of the thorax decreases and the pressure increases, forcing air out.
Function of goblet cells
Secrete and produce mucus
Biological explanation for asthma
Inflammation of the bronchi, making them more sensitive.
Sometimes allergies can cause the muscles to constrict and there’s an increase in the sticky mucus (phlegm).