Respiratory System Flashcards
What is the pathway of air through the respiratory system
Nose/mouth, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, alveoli
What happens in the alveoli
Gas exchange takes place
How are alveoli adapted for their role
Thin one cell thick walls-short diffusion distance, good blood supply-lots of capillaries, large surface area-more gas exchange can take place
What is gas exchange
The movement of gases from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration
Describe inhalation
Diaphragm contracts flattening and dropping down. Intercostal muscles contract moving the ribs up and out. The volume in the lungs increase and the pressure decreases. Air is forced into the lungs
Describe exhalation
Diaphragm relaxes and makes a dome shape. Intercostal muscles relax moving ribs down and in. The lung volume decreases and the pressure increases. Air is forced out of the lungs
Define tidal volume
Volume of aid inspired or expired in one breath
Define breathing rate
Breaths per minute
Define minute ventilation
Volume of air breathed in or out per minute
What is the equation that links breathing rate, minute ventilation and tidal volume
Tidal volume X breathing rate=minute ventilation
What is the equation linking cardiac output, heart rate and stroke volume
Heart rate x stroke volume=cardiac output
