Respiratory System Overview

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to the respiratory system, including functions, structures, mechanisms of breathing, and common diseases.

Gas Exchange

The process of supplying oxygen to the blood and removing carbon dioxide.

Regulation of Blood pH

The mechanism by which the respiratory system helps maintain the pH of blood through CO₂ levels.

Vocal cords

Structures in the larynx responsible for sound production.

External Respiration

The exchange of gases (O₂ and CO₂) between the lungs (alveoli) and the blood in pulmonary capillaries.

Internal Respiration

The exchange of gases between the blood in systemic capillaries and body tissues.

Pulmonary Ventilation

The movement of air into and out of the lungs.

Alveoli

Tiny air sacs with thin walls surrounded by capillaries, serving as the site of gas exchange.

Conducting Zone

All airways that carry air to the respiratory zone where no gas exchange occurs.

Respiratory Zone

Structures where gas exchange occurs, including respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli.

Cilia

Hair-like structures that move mucus and trapped particles toward the pharynx for expulsion.

Surfactant

A substance that reduces surface tension in alveoli, preventing collapse during exhalation.

Tidal Volume (TV)

The volume of air inhaled or exhaled in a normal breath, approximately 500 mL.

Lung Compliance

The stretchiness of the lungs, affecting how easily they inflate.

Chemoreceptors

Sensory receptors that detect changes in CO₂, O₂, and pH levels to regulate breathing.

Cyanosis

A bluish discoloration of the skin due to low oxygen saturation in the blood.

Pneumothorax

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

COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

Asthma

A respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and obstruction of the airways.