Respiratory System Recap

A set of flashcards based on the lecture notes covering the key concepts related to the respiratory system discussed by Dr. Grace Hogan.

What are the main functions of the respiratory system?

Thermoregulation, defense against infection, vocalization, ventilation, acid-base balance, and gas exchange.

What is the shape and location of the lungs?

The lungs are blunt cone-shaped and located in the thoracic cavity.

What structures comprise the upper respiratory system?

Nasal cavity, oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx.

What does the trachea consist of and why is it important?

The trachea is a tough flexible tube with incomplete rings of hyaline cartilage that prevents collapse or overexpansion.

What type of epithelium is found in the trachea?

Pseudostratified columnar epithelium with goblet cells.

What is the primary function of alveoli?

Alveoli are the site of gaseous exchange, providing a large surface area for O2 and CO2 exchange.

What are the types of cells found in alveoli, and their functions?

Type I pneumocytes are flat cells for gas exchange; Type II pneumocytes secrete surfactant to keep alveoli open.

According to Boyle’s Law, how do gas movements occur in the lungs?

Gas moves in/out of the lung due to pressure differences between atmospheric pressure and alveolar pressure.

What is Fick's Law in relation to gas exchange?

The rate of gas diffusion is proportional to tissue area and difference in partial pressure and inversely proportional to tissue thickness.

How is oxygen transported in the blood?

Oxygen is transported in the blood either dissolved in plasma (1.5%) or bound to hemoglobin (98.5%).