Respiratory System 2

Practice flashcards focusing on key concepts from the Respiratory System lecture.

What are the primary functions of the respiratory system?

Thermoregulation, defense against infection, vocalization, ventilation, acid-base balance, and gas exchange.

What is Boyle's Law?

At a constant temperature, pressure and volume are inversely proportional.

What is the role of the diaphragm in ventilation?

The diaphragm contracts or relaxes to alter the volume of the thoracic cavity.

What happens during inspiration?

The diaphragm and external intercostals contract, increasing lung volume and decreasing Palv.

What does pulmonary ventilation refer to?

The movement of air into and out of the lungs.

What pressure drives pulmonary ventilation?

The difference between atmospheric pressure (Patm) and alveolar pressure (Palv).

What does tidal volume (VT) measure?

The volume of air moved into or out of the lungs during one breath.

What is the normal respiratory rate (RR) in resting adults?

Typically about 12 to 20 breaths per minute.

What happens during expiration?

The diaphragm and internal intercostals relax, decreasing lung volume and increasing Palv.

What is a pneumothorax?

A condition where air enters the pleural cavity, causing the lung to collapse.