Respiratory System Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the anatomy and mechanics of the respiratory system based on the lecture.

Simple diffusion

The process where a material automatically flows from where it is concentrated to where it is less concentrated so it balances out.

Bulk flow

A transport mechanism that moves large numbers of molecules quickly over longer distances inside the body.

Diaphragm

A big thin set of muscles separating the thorax from the abdomen that contracts flat during inhalation and relaxes into an arc to squish the lungs during exhalation.

Conducting zone

The upper parts of the respiratory system that funnel incoming air, starting with the nose and including the sinuses, larynx, and trachea.

Epiglottis

A little trapdoor of tissue covering the larynx that directs food and drink toward the esophagus and keeps them out of the lungs.

Trachea

The rigid windpipe built with prominent rings to prevent collapse when negative pressure drops inside the lungs during breathing.

Respiratory zone

The region inside the lung tissue where actual gas exchange occurs.

Alveoli

Tiny cavities in the lungs lined with simple squamous epithelium tissue where oxygen dissolves and diffuses into capillaries and carbon dioxide diffuses out.