Respiratory System Flashcards
1
Q
Alveolar epithelium adaptations for gas exchange
A
- large surface area (100-140m^2)
- Thin cell membrane (0.5.1um)
- excellent blood supply
- wet surface (alveolar fluid containing surfactant)
2
Q
Inspiration
A
- active process
- diaphragm and external intercostal muscles contract
- ribcage expands into thoracic cage
- air flows into lungs by negative pressure (-1mmHg)
3
Q
Expiration
A
- passive
- external intercostal muscles relax
- thoracic cavity recoils to resting position
- air flows out of lungs by positive pressure (+1 mmHg)
4
Q
Inhalation (respiratory muscles)
A
5
Q
Expiration (respiratory muscles)
A
