Mechanics of Breathing

These flashcards cover key concepts and detailed information on the mechanics of breathing, including the respiratory system functions, gas exchange processes, and factors influencing ventilation.

What are the four main functions of the respiratory system?

1. Exchange of gases between the atmosphere and the blood 2. Homeostatic regulation of body pH 3. Protection from inhaled pathogens and irritating substances 4. Vocalization

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

Alveoli are the primary site of gas exchange between the lungs and blood.

Name the two types of alveolar cells and their functions.

Type I alveolar cells are for gas exchange, while Type II alveolar cells secrete surfactants to help reduce surface tension in the lungs.

What is the role of surfactants?

Surfactants reduce surface tension in the alveoli and aid in lung expansion during breathing.

What are the components of pulmonary circulation?

Pulmonary circulation involves the pulmonary trunk receiving low-oxygen blood from the right ventricle and distributing it to the lungs for oxygenation.

How does airway resistance affect breathing?

Higher airway resistance requires more work for breathing; it is influenced by the length and radius of the airways.

What is Boyle’s law and how does it relate to breathing?

Boyle's law states that pressure and volume are inversely related; during inspiration, an increase in volume results in a decrease in pressure, causing air to flow into the lungs.

What is the difference between obstructive and restrictive lung disease?

Obstructive lung disease reduces airflow due to increased resistance in airways, while restrictive lung disease involves reduced lung expansion and compliance.

What is the role of pH regulation in the respiratory system?

pH regulation is critical for protein function and is influenced by the balance of CO2 and H2O in the body, impacting respiration and metabolic processes.

What factors affect the efficiency of gas exchange?

Factors include alveolar oxygen pressure, surface area, barrier permeability, and diffusion distance.

What muscles are primarily involved in inhalation?

The diaphragm and intercostal muscles are primarily responsible for inhalation.

What muscles facilitate exhalation?

During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes and abdominal muscles may contract to push air out.

Define tidal volume.

Tidal volume is the amount of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing.

What is vital capacity?

Vital capacity is the maximum amount of air that can be expelled from the lungs after a maximum inhalation.

What is the significance of the diaphragm in respiration?

The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and plays a crucial role in breathing.

How does carbon dioxide affect breathing rate?

Increased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood stimulate the respiratory center in the brain to increase breathing rate.

What is external respiration?

External respiration is the exchange of gases between the air in the alveoli and the blood in the pulmonary capillaries.

What is internal respiration?

Internal respiration is the exchange of gases between the blood in systemic capillaries and the tissues.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing.

What are the common symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Common symptoms of COPD include chronic cough, mucus production, and difficulty breathing, especially during physical activities.

What role do cilia play in the respiratory system?

Cilia help to move mucus out of the airways, trapping inhaled particles and pathogens to keep the lungs clear.

What is the function of the pleura?

The pleura are membranes that surround the lungs and help reduce friction during breathing.

What gas exchanges primarily occur in the alveoli?

Oxygen is taken in from the air, and carbon dioxide is released from the blood primarily in the alveoli.

Explain the concept of dead space in the respiratory system.

Dead space refers to the parts of the respiratory system where gas exchange does not occur, including the trachea and bronchi.

What is the role of hemoglobin in the respiratory system?

Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it to tissues throughout the body