The Respiratory System

What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

Gas exchange (providing constant O₂ while removing CO₂)

What are the two divisions of the respiratory system?

Upper Respiratory System and Lower Respiratory System

What is pulmonary ventilation?

Air continuously moved in/out of lungs.

What occurs during external respiration?

Gas exchange between alveoli and pulmonary blood.

Define respiratory gas transport.

O₂ and CO₂ transported in blood between lungs and tissues.

What is internal respiration?

Gas exchange inside body between tissues and capillaries.

What is the average rate of breathing?

12-15 breaths/minute.

Name a factor that can influence the rate of breathing.

Sex, age, posture, or activity.

What is the normal lung capacity?

About 6 liters.

What is the role of surfactant in the respiratory system?

It is crucial for preventing alveolar collapse.

What are alveoli?

The functional units where gas exchange actually occurs.

What combination of factors controls breathing?

Chemical (CO₂/pH levels) and neural (brain stem) factors.

What is the purpose of lung volume measurements?

To help diagnose respiratory disorders.

What function does the pleural sac serve?

It protects lungs and reduces friction during breathing.