The Respitatory System

Question 1

What is the function of the pharynx

Answer 1

The pharynx transfers food from the mouth to the oesophagus, to warm/moisten air before it moves into trachea. it’s divided into 3 parts:

1. Nasopharynx
2. Oropharynx
3. Laryngopharynx

Question 2

Nasopharynx

Answer 2

It provides a major drainage path for lymphatic fluids and drains into the throat or ears. It contains adenoid tissue which fights infection.

Question 3

Oropharynx

Answer 3

It accepts air from the Nasopharynx and passes it to the laryngeal pharynx. Prevents foods and liquids from entering the lungs.

Question 4

Laryngopharynx

Answer 4

Lined by stratified squamous epithelium, function is to pass food and air. During swallowing the entry of the air stops allowing food to pass through the oesophagus

Question 5

Larynx

Answer 5

Allows air to pass through it while keeping food and drink from blocking the airway. It consists of:

1. The thyroid cartilage (hyaline)
2. The cricoid cartilage (hyaline)
3. The epiglottis (elastic)

Question 6

Bronchi

Answer 6

These allow air to pass into Lungs and deliver air to the alveoli, contains less cartilage and more smooth muscle, these disappear and a single layer of epithelial cells is left: alveoli

The 3 types are:
. Lobular (the passages that first enter lungs)
. Terminal (smaller passages in each lung)
. Respiratory (leading on from terminal branches that lead to alveolar ducts)