Respiratory System Flashcards
Respiratory System
the system of the nose, mouth, throat, lungs, and muscles that brings oxygen into the body and expels carbon dioxide (pulmonary system)
Oropharynx
the area directly posterior to the mouth
Nasopharynx
the area directly posterior to the nose
Pharynx
the area directly posterior to the mouth and nose. It is made up of the oropharynx and the nasopharynx
Epiglottis
a leaf-shaped structure that prevents food and foreign matter from entering the trachea
Larynx
the voice box
Cricoid Cartilage
the ring-shaped structure that forms the lower portion of the larynx
Trachea
the “windpipe” the structure that connects the pharynx to the lungs
Lungs
the organs where exchange of atmospheric oxygen and waste carbon dioxide that place
Bronchi
the two large sets of branches that come off the trachea and enter the lungs (trachea splits)
Alveoli
the microscopic sacs of the lungs where gas exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide take place in the bloodstream (at the ends of the bronchi branches)
Diaphragm
the muscular structure that divides the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity, a major muscle for respiration
Inhalation
an active process in which the intercostal (rib) muscles of the diaphragm contract, expanding the size of the chest creating a negative pressure pulling air into the lungs
Exhalation
a passive process in which the intercostal (rib) muscles and the diaphragm relax, decreasing the chest in size creating a positive pressure pushing air out of the lungs
Ventilation
the process of moving oxygen and carbon dioxide in and out of the lungs (breathing)
