Respiratory System Anatomy & Physiology

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to the Respiratory System Anatomy & Physiology.

Respiration

Gas exchange of O2 and CO2 between atmosphere and body cells.

Conducting Zone

Includes structures that transport air from the nose to the terminal bronchioles.

Respiratory Zone

Includes structures where gas exchange occurs, such as respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli.

Mucosa

Mucous membrane lining the respiratory tract, composed of epithelium and lamina propria.

Olfaction

Sense of smell, facilitated by olfactory receptors located in the superior nasal cavity.

Epithelium Transition in Respiratory System

The epithelium transitions from pseudostratified ciliated columnar to simple squamous from the nasal cavity to the alveoli.

Alveoli

Tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs, lined by simple squamous epithelium.

Goblet Cells

Epithelial cells that secrete mucus in the respiratory tract.

Asthma

Condition characterized by bronchoconstriction leading to wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Trachea

The windpipe, connecting the larynx to the bronchi, supported by C-shaped rings of cartilage.

Bronchoconstriction

Narrowing of bronchial passageways due to contraction of smooth muscle.

Bronchodilation

Widening of bronchial passageways due to relaxation of smooth muscle.

Pleura

Serous membrane lining the lungs and thoracic cavity, consisting of visceral and parietal layers.

Pulmonary Circulation

Transports deoxygenated blood from the right side of the heart to the lungs for reoxygenation.

Cystic Fibrosis

Genetic disorder leading to thick, sticky mucus production that blocks airways and causes respiratory infections.

Alveolar Macrophages

Immune cells in the alveoli that engulf pathogens and particles.

Olfactory Epithelium

Specialized epithelium responsible for the sense of smell, located in the nasal cavity.

Sound Production

Vocal cords vibrate to produce sound as air moves across them.