Breathing and Exchange of Gases - Respiratory System Notes

Flashcards reviewing the structure and function of the human respiratory system, including bronchial tree divisions, conducting vs. exchange zones, and lung anatomy.

How does the nasal chamber open into the pharynx?

Via internal nostrils / nares.

What is the function of the pharynx in the respiratory system?

It serves as a common passage for food & air.

What is the larynx, and how many cartilages is it made up of?

The larynx is the sound box, and it is made up of 9 cartilagenous structures.

What is the function of the epiglottis during swallowing?

It covers the glottis during swallowing of food to prevent its entry into the trachea.

What type of epithelium lines the trachea?

CILIATED PSEUDOSTRATIFIED EPITHELIUM.

What feature prevents the collapse of the trachea?

It is covered with incomplete 'C' shaped cartilagenous rings that are incomplete dorsally.

At what level does the trachea divide into primary (1°) bronchi?

At the level of the 5th thoracic Vertebrae.

What are the relative positions of the trachea and oesophagus?

The trachea is ventral and the oesophagus is dorsal.

What is the glottis?

The opening of the Trachea.

What anatomical structures make up the Conducting Zone of the respiratory system?

From the external nostril upto the terminal bronchiole.

What are the four functions of the Conducting Zone?

1) Humidification of air, 2) Bring the air to body temp, 3) Traps the dust particle, and 4) Conduct the air to the exchange zone.

What anatomical structures make up the Respiratory Zone / Exchange Zone?

From the respiratory bronchiole upto the alveoli.

What is the primary function of the Respiratory Zone / Exchange Zone?

Exchange of gases.

How are the alveoli described structurally in the notes?

They are thin, irregular walled, and highly VASCULAR.

What comprises the structure of the lungs?

A branching network of Bronchi, Bronchioles & Alveoli.

What membrane covers the lungs, and what is located between its layers?

The lungs are covered with double membranous 'PLEURA' with pleural fluid in between.

How are the outer and inner pleural membranes distinguished?

The outer layer is the parietal pleural membrane (towards thoracic chamber) and the inner layer is the visceral pleural membrane (towards lung).

What is the function of the pleural fluid?

To reduce friction on the lung surface.

Why is the right lung situated a little above?

Due to the presence of the liver.

What is the air tight chamber housing the lungs called?

The thoracic chamber.