Respiration Review

Flashcards for key concepts related to respiration and gas exchange.

Gases exchanged during breathing

Oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2)

Function of the epiglottis

Prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing.

Function of cartilage rings in trachea

Provide structural support and maintain open airway.

Function of cilia

Sweep mucus and trapped particles out of the respiratory system.

Function of pleural membrane

Provides lubrication and reduces friction between lungs and chest wall.

Where is oxygen partial pressure highest?

In the alveoli of the lungs.

Where is oxygen partial pressure lowest and why?

In the body cells due to metabolic consumption of oxygen.

Chemoreceptors that aid in respiration

Detect oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2).

Exchange of gases in the body

Occurs in alveoli where O2 diffuses into blood and CO2 diffuses out due to concentration gradients.

Role of hemoglobin

Increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Role of hemoglobin in transporting CO2

Acts as a buffer.

Carbonic anhydrase function

Speeds up conversion of free carbon dioxide into carbonic acid.

Intercostal muscles during inhalation

Contract and move ribs up and out.

Diaphragm function during inhalation

Contracts and moves down.

Effect of inhalation on lung volume

Causes the volume in the lungs to increase.

Location of the 2 chemoreceptors\

In the medulla oblongata.

Response to increased CO2 levels in blood

Sends message to respiratory muscles to contract, increasing breathing rate.

Location of O2 chemoreceptor

In the carotid arteries and aorta.

Inhalation

Response to decreased O2 levels in blood

Site of gas exchange

In the capillary network surrounding each alveolus.

Asthma attack characteristics

Bronchial tubes constrict, causing difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing.

Sliding Filament Theory

Explains muscle contraction through the interaction of actin and myosin filaments.

Antagonistic muscles

Muscles that work in opposition; for example, biceps and triceps.

Cause of hiccup

Involuntary contraction of the diaphragm.