Breathing (lol) (copy)

Respiratory System

Responsible for exchanging gases between the human body and the external environment.

Inhalation

Air entry into the lungs where oxygen moves into the blood.

Exhalation

Air leaving the lungs where carbon dioxide moves from the blood into the air.

Composition of Breathed Air

Air is composed of approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and 1% other gases.

Nostrils & Nasal Cavity

Air enters through the nostrils into the nasal cavity, which warms and moistens air.

Pharynx

The throat passage leading from the nasal cavity to the larynx.

Larynx

Known as the voice box, it vibrates vocal cords to enable speech.

Trachea

The windpipe that conducts air from the larynx into the chest.

Bronchi

The two primary branches of the trachea that enter each lung.

Bronchioles

Smaller tubes branching from the bronchi within the lungs.

Alveoli

Microscopic air sacs where gas exchange occurs with the bloodstream.

Epiglottis

A flap of cartilage preventing food and liquids from entering the trachea during swallowing.

Intercostal Muscles

Muscles between ribs that help move the rib cage during respiration.

Diaphragm

A muscle that forms the floor of the chest cavity and plays a major role in breathing.

Gas Exchange

The process by which oxygen is taken up and carbon dioxide is released in the alveoli.

Diffusion

The movement of matter from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Oxygen Transfer

The process where oxygen diffuses from alveolar air into the blood.

Carbon Dioxide Transfer

The process where carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli.

Mechanics of Breathing

Breathing relies on changes in chest volume and air pressure facilitated by muscles.

Inhalation Mechanism

Involves contraction of intercostal muscles and the diaphragm, increasing thoracic volume.

Exhalation Mechanism

Involves relaxation of intercostal muscles and diaphragm, decreasing thoracic volume.