Anatomy and Physiology of the Respiratory System

Flashcards covering the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system, including structures, functions, and mechanics of breathing, based on lecture notes.

Nasal Cavity

Warms, moistens, and filters air entering the respiratory system.

Pharynx

Tube common to the respiratory and digestive systems, also known as the throat.

Epiglottis

Flap of tissue that closes over the respiratory tube during swallowing to prevent food and water from entering.

Larynx

The voice box, made of cartilage and containing vocal cords.

Trachea

Connects the pharynx to the lungs and is composed of C-shaped rings of cartilage.

Bronchi

Main airway that connects the trachea to each lung and divides into bronchioles.

Bronchioles

Small, branching tubes connecting the bronchi to the alveoli.

Alveoli

Clusters of one-cell-thick air sacs surrounded by capillaries, where gas exchange occurs.

Capillaries

Small blood vessels surrounding the alveoli where gas exchange occurs, bringing CO2-rich blood to the lungs and taking O2-rich blood to the tissues.

Pleura

Sac that surrounds the lungs with a thin fluid in between two walls to prevent friction during breathing.

Ribs

Bones surrounding the thoracic cavity that support and protect the lungs and aid in breathing.

Intercostal Muscles

Muscles between the ribs that cause the ribs to move up and out during inhalation.

Diaphragm

Thin, dome-shaped muscle that stretches across the thoracic cavity and aids in breathing. It contracts (pulls down) during inhalation, expanding the thoracic cavity.

Inhalation (Inspiration)

Process of breathing in, requiring energy, where the diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract, increasing lung volume and decreasing pressure.

Exhalation (Expiration)

Process of breathing out, not requiring energy, where the diaphragm and intercostal muscles relax, decreasing lung volume and increasing pressure.

Respiratory Rate

The number of breaths taken in a set period of time, usually one minute; normal range is 12-16 for teenagers and 16-20 for adults.

Vital Capacity

Maximum amount of air moved in and out of the lungs.

Tidal Volume

Normal amount of air moved in and out of the lungs.

Inspiratory Reserve Volume

Amount of air that can be forcefully inhaled after normal inhalation.

Expiratory Reserve Volume

Amount of air that can be forcefully exhaled after normal exhalation.