respriratory system

breathing

the inhalation and exhalation caused by the muscles in our ribs and diaphragm. an active process (uses a energy)

inhalation

when oxygen is taken into the lungs

exhalation

when carbon dioxide is pushed out of the lungs

gaseous exchange

the exchange of gases. oxygen and carbon dioxide between the alveoli and capillaries

cellular respiration

is a process that occurs in the mitochondria of cells when oxygen is combined with food, and energy is released for other other body processes

nasal cavity

filled with blood vessels and mucous glands.

lined with cilia (hair like projections)

functions of nasal cavity

the mucous traps dust particles and microorganisms

the cilia sweeps dust particles away from lungs

mucous membranes ensure air stays moist

pharynx (throat)

part of the digestive system (leading to the oesophagus) and respiratory system (leading to trachea)

larynx (voice box)

vocal cords vibrate to create sound (voice)

trachea (wind pipe)

contains c-shaped rings of cartilage

cartilage provides support to keep trachea open

c-shape allows food to pass down the oesophagus and bulge into/displace the trachea

the trachea divides into left and right bronchi

the bronchi divide into many brochioles

lungs

spongey elastic organ

protected by the verbal column, ribs and sternum

alveoli

are air sacs on the end of bronchioles

look like bunches of grapes

each sac is surrounded by a capillary network (tiny blood vessels) for gaseous exchange

diffusion

will occur between alveoli and capillaries, therefore exchanging gases

walls of alveoli and capillaries are extremely thin (1 cells layer thick)

involves many alveoli and capillaries