Respiratory System Introduction Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the anatomy, physiology, and chemical control of the human respiratory system based on the lecture transcript.

Respiratory tract

The passageway for air, divided into upper and lower sections, that warms and humidifies air to create optimal functional conditions.

Respiratory zone

The specific parts of the respiratory tract involved in gas exchange.

Alveoli

Structures with thin walls made of simple squamous epithelium that allow for easier gas exchange.

Stratified epithelium

A thicker, multi-layered tissue found in areas like the oral pharynx and laryngopharynx to protect against friction during swallowing.

Epiglottis

The structure that closes off the larynx during the action of swallowing.

Ventilation

The process of breathing characterized by changes in the volume of the interpulmonary space to affect pressure.

Diaphragm and external intercostals

The two involuntary skeletal muscles used during quiet respiration.

Accessory muscles

The additional muscles utilized only during forced respiration.

Intrapulmonary space

The space within the lungs that expands sideways, anterior-posteriorly, and vertically during inhalation.

Elasticity

The property of lung tissue that causes it to return to its original shape, leading to a decrease in volume during expiration.

Respiratory membrane

The structure where gas exchange occurs, composed of the epithelium lining the alveoli and the epithelium lining the blood vessels pressed together.

Internal respiration

The exchange process at the tissue level where oxygen leaves the blood for the tissues in exchange for carbon dioxide.

Bucket handle motion

The movement during inspiration where the elevation of the ribs increases the width of the thoracic cavity.

Pump handle motion

The movement where the sternum moves anteriorly and superiorly, increasing the depth of the thoracic cavity.

Chemoreceptors

Sensory receptors that detect chemical changes in the blood, particularly focusing on pH levels.

Carbon dioxide ($CO_2$)

The main chemical stimulus for respiration.

Acidic

A chemical state indicated by a high concentration of Hydrogen ($H^+$) ions in the blood.

Alkaline/Basic

A chemical state indicated by a low concentration of Hydrogen ($H^+$) ions in the blood.

Hypoxia

A dangerous condition characterized by low oxygen ($O_2$) levels in the blood.

Reflexive control

Automatic respiratory regulation that occurs at the brain stem level based on chemical responses.

Spirometer

A device used to measure respiratory volumes and capacities to assess respiratory function.

Partial pressure

The individual pressure exerted by a specific gas within a mixture of gases, such as the pressure of oxygen within the air.