respiratory system Flashcards
What is the respiratory system responsible for?
The respiratory system is responsible for breathing (pulmonary ventilation) and respiration (gas exchange).
What is breathing?
The mechanical process of getting air into and out of the lungs. It involves the intake of oxygen during inspiration and the release of carbon dioxide during expiration.
What is respiration?
The chemical process of taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. Takes place at the cellular level to produce energy. It includes glycolysis, pyruvate oxidation, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.
Parts in the upper respiratory system
Nose, Nostril, Epiglottis, Pharynx, Larynx
function of the upper respiratory system
Filters, warms, and humidifies incoming air. It also protects the delicate lower respiratory tract and reabsorbs heat and water in outgoing air.
Function of nostril
The passageway for air from the atmosphere into the respiratory tract. It contains cilia (microscopic hair-like structures) that filter out particles like dust.
Function of the Epiglottis
A flap of tissue that is up during breathing to allow air into the larynx. It folds back over the glottis during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway.
Function of the Pharynx
Connects the mouth and nasal cavity to the esophagus. It filters, warms, and humidifies air. The pharynx is divided into three sections: nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx.
Function of the Larynx
Produces sound (voice box). It protects the trachea against food aspiration and contains cartilage (epiglottis, thyroid, cricoid) that surrounds and protects the glottis.
Function of lower respiratory system
Conducts air to and from the gas exchange surfaces
Function of Trachea (Windpipe)
Connects the larynx and pharynx to the lungs. It filters inhaled air and directs it to the bronchi. The trachea is a tough, flexible tube.
Parts of the lower respiratory system
Trachea, Bronchi, Bronchioles, Lungs, Alveoli, Diaphragm
Function of the Bronchi/Bronchus
Two air passageways branching out from the trachea, directing air into the lungs. They branch into smaller tubes called bronchioles. The right bronchus is wider and at a steeper angle than the left.
Function of the lungs
The main organs of respiration. This is where oxygen is taken in and carbon dioxide is expelled.
the Bronchioles are
Smaller tubes connected to the bronchi, located within the lungs. They have thick smooth muscle that can constrict (decrease airflow) or dilate (increase airflow).
