topic 2 - genes and health

Question 1

how is air drawn into the lungs?

Answer 1

via the trachea, due to low pressure in the lungs, created by an increase in the volume of the thorax as the ribs move up and the diaphragm moves down

Question 2

how is air forced out of the lungs?

Answer 2

when the diaphragm muscles and those between the ribs relax, volume decreases, pressure rises, and air is forced out through the trachea

Question 3

what is the function of the alveoli?

Answer 3

they are the site of gas exchange

Question 4

what cells produce mucus in the gas exchange system?

Answer 4

goblet cells

Question 5

how is mucus removed from the gas exchange system?

Answer 5

the cilia that cover the epithelial cells lining the tubes of the gas exchange system sweep mucus along (mucus may contain dust, debris, or microorganisms so needs to be removed)

Question 6

how does cystic fibrosis effect mucus?

Answer 6

mucus contains less water than normal, making it more sticky, and more difficult for the cilia to move