Bio res sys

Respiratory System

The organ system involved in the inhalation of oxygen and exhalation of carbon dioxide, consisting of organs such as the trachea and lungs.

Inspiration

The process of inhalation where air is drawn into the lungs, decreasing pressure within the thorax.

Expiration

The process of exhalation where air is expelled from the lungs, increasing pressure within the thorax.

Alveoli

Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs, allowing oxygen to enter the blood and carbon dioxide to be removed.

Emphysema

A chronic respiratory condition characterized by the destruction of alveolar walls, reducing the surface area for gas exchange.

Trachea

A tube reinforced by cartilage rings, extending from the larynx to the bronchi, conducting air to and from the lungs.

Bronchi

The two main branches of the trachea that lead into each lung and further divide into smaller bronchioles.

Pleural Membranes

Thin layers of tissue that line the thoracic cavity and cover the lungs, reducing friction during breathing.

Boyle's Law

A gas law stating that pressure and volume are inversely related; as volume increases, pressure decreases and vice versa.

Type I Pneumocytes

Flattened cells in the alveolus responsible for gas exchange due to their thin structure.

Type II Pneumocytes

Rounded cells in the alveolus responsible for producing surfactant, which prevents alveolar collapse.

Surfactant

A fluid secreted by Type II pneumocytes that reduces surface tension within the alveoli, preventing collapse.

Gas Exchange

The process of diffusion whereby oxygen is absorbed into the blood and carbon dioxide is released from the blood.

Diaphragm

A dome-shaped muscle that separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities; its contraction aids in inhalation.

Capillaries

Small blood vessels surrounding the alveoli where gas exchange occurs between air and blood.

Ventilation

The process of moving air in and out of the lungs through inhalation and exhalation.

Epiglottis

A flap of tissue that covers the larynx during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airways.

Nasal Cavity

The chamber located above the oral cavity and behind the nose, involved in air filtration, humidification, and warm-up before reaching the lungs.

Pharynx

The membrane-lined cavity behind the nose and mouth that connects to the esophagus and trachea.

Larynx

Also known as the voice box, it is located between the pharynx and the trachea, containing the vocal cords.

Bronchioles

Small branches of the bronchi that lead to the alveolar sacs in the lungs.

Thorax

The part of the body between the neck and the abdomen, containing the rib cage and the lungs.

Pulmonary ventilation

The process of breathing wherein oxygen is inhaled and carbon dioxide is exhaled.

Shortness of breath

A common symptom of conditions like emphysema, characterized by difficulty in breathing.

Bronchodilator

Medications used to widen the bronchi and bronchioles, making it easier to breathe.

Oxygen therapy

A treatment that provides extra oxygen to patients with respiratory issues to ensure adequate oxygen levels in the body.

Chemical fumes

Airborne irritants that can cause long-term respiratory conditions like emphysema.