The Respiratory System

Question 1

What forms the upper respiratory and lower respiratory tracts??

Answer 1

Upper- nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx.

Lower- trachea, primary bronchi, lungs.

Question 2

What is the purpose of the upper respiratory system?

Answer 2

It is to condition inspired air before it reaches the lungs so that it is:
Warmed to body temperature
Humidified
Filtered for particulates (>10um)

Question 3

What is the function of the lower respiratory system?

Answer 3

It is concerned with gas exchange, conducting inspired air into the tissues involved in gas exchange and further trapping and removal of particulates.

Question 4

Where is the rhythm of breathing controlled?

Answer 4

Respiratory centre within the brainstem- in the medulla oblongata.

Question 5

What are inspiratory neurones?

Answer 5

Neurones which are active during inspiration but inactive during expiration.

Question 6

What are expiratory neurones?

Answer 6

Neurones which are active during expiration but not inspiration.

Question 7

How can the rhythmic cycling pattern of inspiration and expiration be modified?

Answer 7

By Afferent information which comes from chemoreceptors, the brain and receptors in the lungs.