The respiratory system - Skeletal structures, nasal cavity and pharynx

Question 1

What are the four functions of the nasal cavity?

Answer 1

• Warms and humidifies the inspired air.
• Removes and traps pathogens and particulate matter from the inspired air.
• Responsible for sense of smell.
• Drains and clears the paranasal sinuses and lacrimal ducts.

Question 2

What are the 3 regions of the nasal cavity?

Answer 2

• Vestibule – the area surrounding the anterior external opening to the nasal cavity.
• Respiratory region – lined by a ciliated psudeostratified epithelium, interspersed with mucus-secreting goblet cells.
• Olfactory region – located at the apex of the nasal cavity. It is lined by olfactory cells with olfactory receptors.