Lung Function and Gas Exchange

Flashcards covering key concepts related to lung function, breathing processes, respiratory volumes, and gas transport.

What is the primary function of the lungs?

Site of gas exchange.

What is the difference in lung structure between the right and left lung?

The right lung is thicker and broader, has 3 lobes; the left lung has 2 lobes.

What are the two phases of breathing?

Inspiration (air flows into the lungs) and Expiration (gases exit the lungs).

What largely regulates the process of inspiration?

Inspiration requires the use of a pressure gradient.

What does atmospheric pressure (Patm) refer to?

Pressure exerted by the air surrounding the body.

What does Boyle's Law state?

Volume changes lead to pressure changes which lead to the flow of gases to equalize pressure.

What happens to intrapulmonary pressure during inspiration?

Intrapulmonary pressure drops to -1 mm Hg.

What is the normal tidal volume (TV) for an adult?

500 ml.

What is vital capacity (VC)?

The total amount of exchangeable air, calculated as TV + IRV + ERV.

What are the three forms in which carbon dioxide is transported in the blood?

Dissolved in plasma (7-10%), chemically bound to hemoglobin (20% as carbaminohemoglobin), and bicarbonate ion in plasma (70%).

What process occurs in the lungs involving bicarbonate ions?

Bicarbonate ions move into RBCs, binding with hydrogen ions to form carbonic acid, which is split to release CO2 and water.

What occurs during expiration?

It is a passive process.

charectersitcs of lungs

right lungs had 3 lobes and left has 2