Respiratory System Overview

Flashcards detailing key concepts and terminology from the Respiratory System chapter.

Respiration

The process of bringing air into the lungs, exchanging gases between air and blood, using oxygen in cellular metabolism, and eliminating carbon dioxide.

Glycolysis

The process of breaking down glucose to extract energy, producing pyruvic acid and ATP.

ATP Synthesis

The process by which cells produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), requiring oxygen for maximum efficiency.

Respiratory System

A series of passageways that bring air into the body, allow gas exchange, and expel air, including structures like the trachea, bronchi, and lungs.

Upper Respiratory Tract (URT)

The portion of the respiratory system that includes the nose, nasal cavity, pharynx, and larynx.

Lower Respiratory Tract (LRT)

This includes the trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli.

Surfactant

A substance that reduces the surface tension in the alveoli, preventing collapse and aiding gas exchange.

Ventilation-Perfusion Coupling

The matching of airflow (ventilation) to blood flow (perfusion) in the lungs to optimize gas exchange.

Tidal Volume (TV)

The amount of air taken in or expelled during a normal breath.

Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV)

The additional amount of air that can be inhaled after a normal inhalation.

Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV)

The amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled after a normal exhalation.

Residual Volume (RV)

The volume of air remaining in the lungs after a forced exhalation.

Bronchoconstriction

The narrowing of the airways due to smooth muscle contraction, leading to reduced airflow.

Bronchodilation

The dilation of bronchial air passages, increasing airflow.

Partial Pressure

The pressure exerted by a single gas in a mixture, influencing gas movement during respiration.

Cellular Respiration

The metabolic process in which cells use oxygen to produce energy from nutrients, primarily glucose.

Pulmonary Ventilation

The process of moving air in and out of the lungs, consisting of inspiration and expiration.

Intrapleural Pressure

The pressure within the pleural cavity, which is always lower than intrapulmonary pressure to keep the lungs inflated.

Breathing Rate

The number of breaths taken per minute, typically averaged at 12-15 in a resting adult.

Hyperventilation

Rapid or deep breathing that can lead to decreased carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

Hypoventilation

Slow or shallow breathing that can result in increased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood.

Acid-base imbalances

Disturbances in the pH of blood due to respiratory issues, such as respiratory acidosis or alkalosis.

Pneumothorax

The presence of air in the pleural cavity, which can lead to lung collapse.

Functional Residual Capacity (FRC)

The volume of air remaining in the lungs after a normal expiration.

Vital Capacity (VC)

The maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after maximum inhalation.

Total Lung Capacity (TLC)

The total amount of air the lungs can hold, including all volumes.