Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a function of the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Synthesizing plasma proteins for blood clotting

Question 2

A patient presents with recurrent sinus infections and difficulty breathing through one nostril. Imaging reveals one nasal passage is narrower than the other. Which condition best explains her symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Deviated nasal septum narrowing one nasal passage

Question 3

Which structure is responsible for producing surfactant to reduce alveolar surface tension?

Accepted Answer

Type II alveolar cells

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the function of the paranasal sinuses?

Accepted Answer

They lighten the skull and enhance voice resonance.

Question 5

During swallowing, which structure prevents food from entering the nasal cavity?

Accepted Answer

Uvula

Question 6

Which of the following statements about the trachea is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

It is lined with ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium containing goblet cells.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why adult males typically have a lower-pitched voice than females?

Accepted Answer

Their larynx is wider, and their vocal ligaments are longer and thicker.

Question 8

Which of the following equations correctly represents Boyle's Law as it applies to pulmonary ventilation?

Accepted Answer

$$P_1V_1 = P_2V_2$$

Question 9

Which of the following is the correct sequence of airflow through the conducting zone of the respiratory tract?

Accepted Answer

Nasal cavity → pharynx → larynx → trachea → bronchi → bronchioles

Question 10

A patient with a long history of smoking presents with shortness of breath and decreased breath sounds. Pulmonary function tests reveal reduced elastic recoil and enlarged air spaces due to destruction of alveolar walls. Which cell type is most directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Type I alveolar cells

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of the respiratory mucosa in the nasal cavity?

Accepted Answer

It moistens, warms, and filters inspired air.

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of the larynx?

Accepted Answer

Producing speech and other vocalizations

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why the trachea is supported by C-shaped rings of hyaline cartilage?

Accepted Answer

To keep the airway open while allowing the esophagus to expand during swallowing

Question 14

Which region of the pharynx serves only as an airway and contains the pharyngeal tonsils?

Accepted Answer

Nasopharynx

Question 15

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the respiratory membrane?

Accepted Answer

It consists of type I alveolar cells, fused basal lamina, and capillary endothelial cells.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of alveolar macrophages?

Accepted Answer

They clean up debris and migrate to the bronchioles to be swept up and swallowed.

Question 17

Which of the following is a correct statement about the lungs?

Accepted Answer

The left lung has two lobes separated by the left oblique fissure.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the role of the pleural cavity?

Accepted Answer

It is filled with pleural fluid to lubricate the moving lungs.

The Respiratory System: Structure and Function

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards