A&P II Exam 2 Study Guide: Lymphatic, Immune, and Respiratory Systems

Q1. What are the functions of the lymphatic system?

Background

Topic: Lymphatic System Overview

This question tests your understanding of the main roles the lymphatic system plays in the body, including fluid balance, immune defense, and absorption of dietary fats.

Key Terms:

• Lymphatic system

• Immunity

• Fluid balance

• Absorption of fats

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. List the three primary functions of the lymphatic system. Think about how it interacts with the circulatory and immune systems.

2. For each function, provide a brief explanation or example (e.g., how it returns interstitial fluid to the bloodstream).

3. Consider how the lymphatic system helps protect the body from pathogens.

4. Think about the role of the lymphatic system in absorbing fats from the digestive tract.

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Q2. How much fluid is returned per day by the lymphatic system?

Background

Topic: Lymphatic Circulation

This question focuses on the volume of fluid that the lymphatic system returns to the bloodstream daily, which is important for maintaining fluid balance.

Key Terms:

• Interstitial fluid

• Lymph

• Fluid homeostasis

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Recall the approximate amount of fluid filtered out of capillaries into tissues each day.

2. Remember that most of this fluid is reabsorbed, but a certain amount is collected by lymphatic capillaries.

3. Think about the typical value (in liters) that is returned to the blood via the lymphatic system daily.

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Q3. Lymph is similar to which other fluid? List the components of lymph. Why is it white?

Background

Topic: Lymph Composition

This question asks you to compare lymph to other body fluids, identify its components, and explain its appearance.

Key Terms:

• Lymph

• Plasma

• Chyle

• White appearance (milky)

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Identify which body fluid lymph most closely resembles in composition.

2. List the main components found in lymph (e.g., water, proteins, cells).

3. Consider what might cause lymph to appear white or milky, especially after a meal.

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Q4. What are lymphatic capillaries? What is another term for them?

Background

Topic: Lymphatic Capillaries

This question tests your knowledge of the structure and alternate names for lymphatic capillaries.

Key Terms:

• Lymphatic capillaries

• Lacteals

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Define what lymphatic capillaries are and where they are found.

2. Recall the special name for lymphatic capillaries in the small intestine.

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Q5. How are lymphatic capillaries different from systemic capillaries? How does their structure affect their permeability?

Background

Topic: Capillary Structure and Function

This question asks you to compare lymphatic and blood capillaries, focusing on structural differences and permeability.

Key Terms:

• Permeability

• Endothelial cells

• One-way valves

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. List structural features unique to lymphatic capillaries (e.g., overlapping endothelial cells).

2. Explain how these features allow for greater permeability compared to blood capillaries.

3. Consider what types of substances can enter lymphatic capillaries due to this structure.

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Q6. What determines if substances enter the lymphatic capillary? What type of material/debris/cells enter?

Background

Topic: Lymphatic Capillary Function

This question focuses on the mechanisms that allow substances to enter lymphatic capillaries and the types of materials that are transported.

Key Terms:

• Pressure gradients

• Interstitial fluid

• Cellular debris

• Pathogens

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Describe the pressure changes that open the overlapping endothelial cells of lymphatic capillaries.

2. List examples of substances that can enter (e.g., proteins, pathogens, cell debris).

3. Explain why this is important for immune surveillance.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!