Airways and Alveoli Part 1

Conducting Zone

The various passages that convey air between the external environment and the respiratory surfaces, lined with epithelial cells.

Respiratory Zone

The highly vascularized region where gas exchange actually takes place, characterized by thin moist membranes.

External Respiration

The exchange of gas between the inspired air and the circulatory system, taking place in the respiratory zone.

Gas Transport

The delivery of gas via the circulatory system between the lungs and the tissues.

Internal Respiration

Gas exchange between the blood and the tissues of the body.

Cellular Respiration

The oxidative production of ATP by the cells.

Ventilation

The mechanical process of moving air in and out of the conduction and respiratory zones.

Surface area to Volume Ratio

A measure that emphasizes the importance of small cell size for efficient membrane transport.

Nasal Cavity

The point of entry for external air that moistens, warms, filters inhaled air and houses olfactory receptors.

Respiratory Mucosa

Lined with pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium, containing mucous cells and serous glands that help in trapping contaminants.

Olfactory Mucosa

Located near the roof of the nasal cavity, it houses the olfactory receptors.

Eustachian Tubes

Connect middle ear with the lateral wall of the posterior pharynx, serving the purpose of equalizing air pressure.

Nasolacrimal Ducts

Lead from the orbit to the lateral walls of the nasal cavity, allowing tears to pass into the nasal cavity.

Pharynx

Common passageway for both respiratory and digestive systems, divided into nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx.

Larynx

Located between C4-C6, acts to conduct air, prevent aspiration, and facilitate vocalizations.

Rima glottidis

The slit between vocal cords that is prone to edema and obstruction.

Vascular Epithelium

Well suited to warming the inspired air as part of nasal cavity functions.