Respiratory System Review

A set of flashcards that cover key concepts regarding the respiratory system, including anatomy, physiology, lung volumes, gas exchange, disorders, and more.

Where are the lungs located?

In the thoracic cavity.

What surrounds each lung?

A serous membrane called pleura.

What is the function of the respiratory system?

Provides gas exchange between air and circulating blood.

What is external respiration?

Gas exchange between blood and lung air.

What type of epithelium is found in the alveoli?

Simple squamous epithelium.

Which muscles contract during inhalation?

Diaphragm and external intercostal muscles.

What causes pneumothorax?

Air enters the pleural cavity causing a collapse of the lung.

What is tidal volume (TV)?

The amount of air moved into or out of the lungs during a normal respiratory cycle.

What is vital capacity (VC)?

The maximum amount of air a person can move into and out of the lungs.

What happens during gas exchange?

O2 diffuses into the capillary while CO2 diffuses into the alveolus.

What is the role of hemoglobin in the blood?

Carries most of the O2 in the blood.

What is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease characterized by obstructed airflow.

What causes respiratory distress syndrome in infants?

Lack of surfactant.

What inflammation causes increased mucus production in bronchitis?

Inflammation of the bronchi.

What is pneumonia?

Infectious inflammation causing fluid to collect in the alveoli.

What is asthma?

An allergic inflammation of the bronchi due to hypersensitivity.