Bio169 Anatomy & Physiology Respiratory System Review

This set of flashcards covers vocabulary related to the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system, including key functions, structures, and processes.

Major functions of the respiratory system

To facilitate gas exchange, supplying oxygen to the body and removing carbon dioxide.

Conducting portion of the respiratory system

Part of the respiratory system that includes structures such as the nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles, primarily responsible for air passage and filtration.

Alveolus

A small air sac in the lungs where gas exchange occurs; consists of type 1 and type 2 cells and macrophages.

Mucociliary escalator

A mechanism in the respiratory system that uses cilia to move mucus and trapped particles out of the airways.

Epiglottis

A flap of cartilage that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airways.

Boyle’s Law

A principle stating that the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume; helps explain how breathing works.

Pneumothorax

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

Oxyhemoglobin Saturation (Dissociation) Curve

A graph showing the relationship between the partial pressure of oxygen and hemoglobin saturation, which shifts based on various factors.

Hemoglobin Saturation

The percentage of hemoglobin molecules in the blood that are bound to oxygen.

Hypoventilation

Reduced rate or depth of breathing, leading to increased carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

Pulmonary ventilation

The process of breathing, consisting of inhalation and exhalation.

Bronchodilation

Widening of the bronchi and bronchioles, which decreases resistance and increases airflow.

Bronchoconstriction

Narrowing of the bronchi and bronchioles, which increases resistance and decreases airflow.

Histological layers of the trachea

Include mucosa, submucosa, and adventitia, with specific epithelial lining and structural features.

Compliance of the Lung

The measure of the lung's ability to stretch and expand; a determinant of airflow resistance.

Hypercapnia

Increased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood.

Systemic gas exchange

The exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between blood in systemic capillaries and tissues.

Hyperventilation

Increased rate or depth of breathing, leading to decreased carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

Larynx functions

Plays a crucial role in sound production and acts as a passageway for air; contains important cartilages.