Respiratory pt 2

Primary Bronchus

The main passageway into the lungs, which divides into the right and left primary bronchus.

Right Primary Bronchus

Shorter, wider, and more vertical than the left primary bronchus; it is where inhaled objects are more likely to lodge.

Left Primary Bronchus

Longer, narrower, and more horizontal than the right bronchus.

Carina

The ridge at the base of the trachea where it divides into the primary bronchi, and it has sensitive cough reflexes.

Alveoli

Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs, similar in shape to grapes.

Surfactant

A detergent-like substance produced in the alveoli that prevents the alveoli from collapsing.

Macrophages

Cells in the alveoli that clean up debris such as dust and smoke that is inhaled.

Diaphragm

The primary muscle of respiration that contracts to increase thoracic cavity volume.

External Intercostal Muscles

Muscles between the ribs that help elevate the rib cage to expand the thoracic cavity during inhalation.

Lobar Bronchi

The secondary bronchi that supply the lobes of the lungs.

Bronchopulmonary Segments

Segments in the lungs formed by the tertiary bronchi.

Respiratory Bronchioles

Small airways that lead from the terminal bronchioles to the alveolar ducts and are part of the gas exchange process.

Gas Exchange

The process occurring in the alveoli where carbon dioxide (CO2) is exchanged for oxygen (O2) in the blood.

Thoracic Cavity

The space enclosed by the thoracic wall and diaphragm that houses the lungs.

Cartilage in the Bronchi

Provides support to the airways and decreases in amount as the airways branch into smaller bronchioles.

Chest Wall Muscles

Muscles that assist in respiration including external and internal intercostals.