Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

To bring in oxygen for cellular metabolism and remove carbon dioxide

Question 2

During inhalation, what happens to the diaphragm and the pressure inside the thoracic cavity?

Accepted Answer

The diaphragm contracts and thoracic pressure decreases

Question 3

Gas exchange between the air in the lungs and the blood occurs at which structure?

Accepted Answer

Alveoli

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT a function of the nasal cavity?

Accepted Answer

Initiating the cough reflex

Question 5

A patient with a deviated nasal septum may experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Disrupted airflow and possible breathing difficulties

Question 6

Which type of epithelium lines the majority of the conducting zone of the respiratory tract?

Accepted Answer

Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium

Question 7

What is the main role of Type II alveolar cells?

Accepted Answer

Secrete surfactant to reduce surface tension

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why air rushes into the lungs during inspiration?

Accepted Answer

The air pressure within the lungs decreases as the thoracic cavity increases in size

Question 9

Which of the following structures is responsible for the cough reflex due to its sensitivity to irritants?

Accepted Answer

Carina

Question 10

A patient with emphysema has difficulty exhaling fully. Which of the following best explains this symptom?

Accepted Answer

Scar tissue and inflammation trap air in alveoli and reduce lung elasticity

Question 11

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 12

Which of the following is true regarding the right main bronchus compared to the left?

Accepted Answer

It is wider, shorter, and more vertical

Question 13

Which of the following cell types is responsible for removing inhaled particles from the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

Alveolar macrophages

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the respiratory membrane?

Accepted Answer

A combination of alveolar epithelium, capillary endothelium, and fused basal laminae

Question 15

Which of the following is a function of the paranasal sinuses?

Accepted Answer

Lighten the skull and moisten incoming air

Question 16

Which of the following would most likely result from a buildup of scar tissue in the stroma of the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Decreased ability of the lungs to inflate and deflate

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of the epiglottis during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

It covers the larynx to prevent food from entering the airway

Question 18

Which of the following is true about the pleurae of the lungs?

Accepted Answer

They are serous membranes that reduce friction during breathing

Question 19

Which of the following is a common effect of cigarette smoke on the respiratory epithelium?

Accepted Answer

Paralysis of cilia leading to mucus buildup

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the transition of epithelium along the bronchial tree as it approaches the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

From pseudostratified ciliated columnar to simple squamous

The Respiratory System: Structure, Function, and Clinical Relevance

Study Guide - Practice Questions