Respiratory System Lecture Notes

Flashcards covering key terms, structures, and functions from the lecture on the human respiratory system.

What three basic substances does the human body need to survive?

Water, air (oxygen), and food.

What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

To bring oxygen into the body and remove carbon dioxide.

Why is the respiratory system vital for humans?

Because humans need oxygen for cellular processes and to expel the waste gas carbon dioxide.

How does the nose condition the air we breathe?

It cleans, warms, and humidifies the air before it reaches the lungs.

What is the trachea and what does it do?

The trachea, or windpipe, is a tube that carries air to and from the lungs and also allows for speech.

What is the role of the epiglottis during breathing and swallowing?

The epiglottis acts like a 'breathing bouncer,' closing over the trachea during swallowing to keep food out and opening for air during breathing.

What are the bronchi?

They are two main branches from the trachea that direct air into each lung.

How do bronchioles differ from bronchi?

Bronchioles are smaller branches of the bronchi that lead directly to the alveoli.

What happens inside the lungs during breathing?

Oxygen is extracted from inhaled air and carbon dioxide is expelled during exhalation.

Where does the actual gas exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide occur?

In the alveoli, tiny air sacs at the ends of bronchioles.

What is the diaphragm and how does it aid breathing?

A dome-shaped muscle that contracts to expand the lungs during inhalation and relaxes to push air out during exhalation.

Define inhalation.

The process of drawing air rich in oxygen into the lungs.

Define exhalation.

The process of expelling air rich in carbon dioxide out of the lungs.

List the correct pathway of air from outside the body to the alveoli.

Nose → Nasal cavity → Pharynx → Larynx → Trachea → Bronchi → Bronchioles → Alveoli.

Why is it important to keep the respiratory system healthy?

A healthy respiratory system ensures efficient oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal, which are essential for all bodily functions.

Name at least three major parts of the respiratory system.

Possible answers: Nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, lungs, alveoli, diaphragm.