Respiratory System Flashcards
Role
Works with cardiovascular system to transport oxygen to every cell and remove carbon dioxide
Pathway of air
- air into nasal cavities
- pharynx
- trachea
- bronchi
- bronchioles
- alveoli
- oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange at alveoli
- bronchioles
- bronchi
- trachea
- pharynx
- air out through nasal cavities
Parts of upper respiratory tract
Mouth
Pharynx
Larynx
Parts of lower respiratory tract
Trachea Bronchi Bronchioles Alveoli Diaphragm
Pharynx
Throat division (trachea and oesophagus)
Larynx
Voice box and protects trachea (coughing when food comes in)
Trachea
Windpipe and carries air from throat to lungs
Bronchi
Trachea divides into two tubes called bronchi. Tube that enters the lungs
Bronchioles
Bronchi continues to divide and become bronchioles which lead to alveolar sacs
Alveoli
Individual hollow cavities contained within alveolar sacs. They have very thin walls which allow the exchange of gases
Diaphragm
Broad band of muscle thats sits underneath the lungs, attaching to lower ribs, sternum and lumbar spine. Forms base of thoracic cavity
What happens in gas exhange
Blood full of carbon dioxide comes in and carbon dioxide is exchanged with oxygen and then the blood goes out
Inspiration
- breathing in
- intercostal muscles contract pulling the ribs upwards and outwards at same time as diaphragm contracts and flattens
- increases area inside lungs
- meaning air is drawn into
Expiration
- breathing out
- intercostal muscles relax lowering rib cage while diaphragm also relaxes (moving upwards)
- decreases area inside lungs
VO2 max
Amount of oxygen that can be taken in
Can be called maximum oxygen uptake
