The Respiratory System

These flashcards cover the key concepts and details related to the respiratory system as outlined in your lecture notes.

What are the two main types of respiration?

External respiration and internal respiration.

What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

To bring oxygen to all body cells and carry carbon dioxide in the opposite direction.

What is the secondary function of voice production in the respiratory system?

Phonation begins in the larynx, where vocal cords vibrate as air passes over them.

How does the respiratory system help regulate body temperature?

Utilizes superficial blood vessels lining nasal passages to warm inhaled air, preventing hypothermia.

How does the respiratory system influence acid-base balance?

It affects the amount of CO2 in blood, as increased CO2 lowers blood pH.

Where are the receptors for the sense of smell located?

In the sensory epithelium high in the nasal passages.

What divides the upper respiratory tract and lower respiratory tract?

The structures outside the lungs (upper) and all structures within the lungs (lower).

What are the structures of the upper respiratory tract?

Nostrils, nasal passages, pharynx, larynx, trachea.

What is the function of the nasal passages lining?

To condition inhaled air by warming, humidifying, and filtering.

What role does the diaphragm play in respiration?

Acts as a respiratory muscle that flattens when contracted, enlarging the thorax volume.

What is the main role of the larynx?

Voice production and control of airflow to and from the lungs.

What is the significance of the C-shaped cartilage rings in the trachea?

They prevent collapse of the trachea during inhalation.

What are alveoli, and what occurs there?

Tiny, thin-walled sacs where external respiration takes place; gas exchange occurs between blood and air.

What defines the bronchial tree?

A system where the autonomic nervous system controls the diameter of the bronchi and bronchioles.

What is the negative intrathoracic pressure?

A partial vacuum within the thorax that helps pull the lungs tightly against the thoracic wall.

What controls the breathing process?

The respiratory center in the medulla oblongata of the brain stem.

What happens when CO2 levels increase in the blood?

The respiratory center triggers an increase in the rate and depth of respiration.

How does the body respond to slight hypoxia?

The respiratory center signals to increase the rate and depth of breathing.

What are the two systems that control breathing?

Mechanical control system and chemical control system.

What is the normal pH range of blood?

7.35 to 7.45, with a normal pH at 7.4.

What muscles are primarily involved in expiration?

Internal intercostal muscles and abdominal muscles.