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Respiratory System Basics - Anatomy & Physiology

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What is ventilation in the respiratory system?

    Ventilation is the process of moving air into and out of the lungs, enabling gas exchange with the environment.

  • Define respiration in the context of the respiratory system.

    Respiration refers to the biochemical process of gas exchange where oxygen is taken in and carbon dioxide is expelled at the cellular level.

  • What happens during inspiration?

    Inspiration is the active process of inhaling air into the lungs by expanding the thoracic cavity.

  • Describe exhalation.

    Exhalation is the passive process of expelling air from the lungs by reducing the thoracic cavity volume.

  • What structures make up the upper respiratory tract?

    The upper respiratory tract includes the nose, nasal cavity, pharynx, and larynx.

  • What structures are part of the lower respiratory tract?

    The lower respiratory tract consists of the trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and lungs.

  • How does the diaphragm contribute to ventilation?

    The diaphragm contracts during inspiration, increasing thoracic volume and drawing air into the lungs.

  • What role do the intercostal muscles play in breathing?

    Intercostal muscles assist in expanding and contracting the rib cage during ventilation.

  • Explain the difference between ventilation and respiration.

    Ventilation is the mechanical movement of air, while respiration is the cellular gas exchange process.

  • What is the function of the nasal cavity in respiration?

    The nasal cavity filters, warms, and humidifies incoming air before it reaches the lungs.

  • Why is the larynx important in the respiratory system?

    The larynx protects the airway and houses the vocal cords for sound production.

  • What is the significance of the trachea in the respiratory system?

    The trachea serves as the main airway conducting air to the bronchi and lungs.

  • Define bronchi and their role.

    Bronchi are the two main branches from the trachea that direct air into each lung.

  • What are bronchioles?

    Bronchioles are smaller branches of bronchi that lead air to the alveoli for gas exchange.

  • What is the primary site of gas exchange in the lungs?

    The alveoli are tiny air sacs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged with blood.

  • How does exhalation occur physiologically?

    Exhalation occurs when respiratory muscles relax, decreasing thoracic volume and pushing air out of the lungs.

  • What is the role of surfactant in the lungs?

    Surfactant reduces surface tension in alveoli, preventing collapse during exhalation.

  • How does the respiratory system protect against pathogens?

    Mucus and cilia in the respiratory tract trap and remove dust and microbes.

  • What is the difference between tidal volume and vital capacity?

    Tidal volume is the air moved during normal breathing; vital capacity is the maximum air exhaled after a deep breath.

  • Why is oxygen important for cellular respiration?

    Oxygen is essential for producing ATP by enabling aerobic metabolism in cells.